The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced a six-month flying ban within Nigeria for popular Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as Kwam1 following alleged misconduct at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The ban was disclosed by Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, during a press briefing on Thursday.
“As we speak, the passenger is going to be blacklisted for six months from flying within Nigeria,” Achimugu said, assuring that all involved will face appropriate sanctions.
He emphasized that aviation laws are internationally recognized and must be followed by everyone, regardless of status.
Legal proceedings are being considered, with the NCAA writing to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police to begin possible prosecution.
When asked whether Kwan 1’s ties to President Bola Tinubu might shield him from consequences, Achimugu stated that both President Tinubu and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, were committed to upholding the law.
Keyamo, via a statement on his X (formerly Twitter) account, confirmed that the musician and airline crew involved in the incident breached aviation safety protocols. He described the situation as a “temporary loss of sanity and control on both sides,” warning it could have led to fatalities.
“Contrary to what Kwam 1’s team claimed, he constantly changed positions on the tarmac to deliberately block the aircraft from taxiing,” Keyamo said. “This is totally unacceptable and akin to a hostage situation.”
He added that the NCAA had been directed to place Kwam 1 on a no-fly list pending further investigation, with all domestic and international airlines instructed to comply or risk license revocation.
The incident occurred on Monday, August 5, during boarding for ValueJet Flight VK201 from Abuja to Lagos. According to a statement from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), K1 allegedly attempted to board with a liquid-filled flask, exceeding the 100ml limit under international aviation regulations.
Despite warnings from security personnel and the flight captain, the musician reportedly refused further screening and poured the liquid later confirmed to be alcohol on a security officer, escalating tensions.
In response, Kwam 1’s media aide, Kunle Rasheed, issued a statement rejecting the allegations, claiming the flask contained plain water provided at the airport lounge. He said Kwam 1 acted respectfully and calmly throughout, accusing the reports of exaggeration.
The statement also claimed that senior airport and airline officials later apologized for the misunderstanding and even offered K1 a private jet to Lagos at no cost.
“We urge the public and media to avoid sensationalism and focus on facts. K1 is a law-abiding citizen cooperating fully with the authorities,” the statement read.
Kwam 1, a legendary figure in Fuji music, is known for his close relationships with political figures, including the President. His behavior at the airport, however, has drawn public criticism, with the aviation minister insisting no individual is above the law.
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