The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has called on the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to reverse the suspension of a ValueJet captain and first officer following a security breach involving popular Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as KWAM 1.
In a statement released on Saturday and signed by NAAPE’s national president, Galadima Abednego, the association appealed for a fair and transparent investigation into the incident, which occurred on August 5 at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The pilots were suspended after KWAM 1 reportedly disrupted a scheduled ValueJet flight to Lagos, leading to a delay and breach of protocol.
While acknowledging that the captain could have exercised better discretion, Abednego strongly condemned the artiste’s unruly conduct.
He emphasized that aviation safety and security remain paramount, and that any actions threatening those principles must be taken seriously.
“While we note the captain’s less-than-optimal discretion, we totally condemn KWAM 1’s crude, unruly behaviour and arrogant display,” Abednego stated.
He praised the Minister of Aviation and the NCAA Director-General for their swift response but insisted that the musician should be held fully accountable to deter similar incidents in the future.
“NAAPE calls on the authorities to place full responsibility on KWAM 1 and ensure he faces the consequences under the law,” he said.
“We urge that any investigation into this matter be transparent, unbiased, and open.”
Abednego added that the intense provocation by the artiste pushed the limits of the pilots’ professional tolerance, despite their otherwise unblemished records.
NAAPE also appealed to the NCAA to reconsider its decision to suspend the crew, urging ValueJet to continue supporting its staff throughout the process.
“We call on all Nigerians especially the flying public to cooperate with aviation personnel and obey airport regulations. Aviation thrives on discipline and cooperation. Passengers must always prioritize safety and conduct themselves accordingly,” Abednego said.
Following public backlash and official announcements placing him on a no-fly list, KWAM 1 issued a statement on Friday expressing regret for his actions, though he initially denied wrongdoing.
Advertisement
