THE Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has launched a formal investigation into a disruptive incident involving legendary Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
News Point Nigeria reports that the incident, which occurred on Tuesday, August 5, reportedly involved a violation of aviation safety procedures during boarding for a Lagos-bound ValueJet Airlines flight.
According to FAAN, the respected music icon was seen carrying a flask containing an unidentified liquid, which he attempted to bring aboard the aircraft, contrary to aviation regulations that restrict liquid substances beyond a certain quantity on commercial flights.
In a statement issued by FAAN spokesperson Obiageli Orah, the airport management explained that aviation security personnel and the flight captain had repeatedly advised the musician not to proceed with the container. However, K1 De Ultimate allegedly ignored multiple warnings and persisted.
“During boarding, the passenger attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security personnel and the Flight Captain,” the statement read.
FAAN said matters escalated when K1 allegedly refused to step aside for further clarification by security personnel. In the process, he reportedly spilled the contents of the flask, later confirmed to be alcohol on one of the airline security officers.
Efforts by the flight captain to intervene were allegedly met with similar resistance. The situation became increasingly tense when the musician allegedly moved to the front of the aircraft, creating a disturbance that delayed boarding operations.
He reportedly refused to vacate the area until airport security officers arrived and escorted him off the aircraft.
“The Authority will not tolerate any actions that compromise operational integrity or undermine aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved,” FAAN added.
“This matter is under thorough investigation, and all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law.”
Meanwhile, in a parallel disciplinary action, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced the suspension of two ValueJet pilots associated with the flight. The pilots are being investigated for failure to enforce aviation safety protocols during the boarding process.
A spokesperson for NCAA described the incident as a serious breach of standard safety procedures, emphasizing that crew members have a duty to strictly adhere to regulations without yielding to pressure from high-profile passengers or celebrities.
The development has drawn mixed reactions from the public, especially from aviation professionals and fans of the renowned Fuji maestro, who is known for his decades-long contribution to Nigeria’s music scene.
While some argue for caution and due process, others insist that public figures must be held to the same standard as ordinary citizens when it comes to matters of public safety.