The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Mike Achimugu, has emphasized the necessity for passengers to comply with aviation safety regulations and the directives of cabin crew.
“Passengers must always follow the instructions of the cabin crew while on an aircraft. You do not establish the safety regulations in aviation,” Achimugu stated during an interview on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Tuesday, asserting that these regulations are in place to safeguard all passengers.
He characterized the recent events involving Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1), and a female passenger on an Ibom Air flight as “entirely preventable” and cautioned that noncompliance could lead to severe repercussions.
While clarifying that the NCAA lacks prosecutorial authority, Achimugu pointed out that airlines have the right to blacklist any passenger considered a threat.
“You are not allowed to physically assault anyone. You are not allowed to disregard the cabin crew while on an aircraft,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of discipline in maintaining flight safety.
On Monday, a confrontation between an Ibom Air passenger and a member of the airline’s staff gained widespread attention, resulting in a ban being placed on her.
Although this decision sparked reactions from the public, Achimugu clarified that the authority to make such decisions lies exclusively with the individual airlines.
He explained that the NCAA can only act as a mediator in such conflicts, particularly when the issues have escalated to legal proceedings.
This incident occurred approximately one week after Fuji artist, Wasiu Ayinde, known as K1 De Ultimate, was suspended by the NCAA for six months due to his disruptive conduct at the Abuja airport.
In response to allegations of bias in addressing both incidents, Achimugu stated that any attempt to take control of an aircraft could be classified as terrorism under aviation law, and the case has now been referred to the appropriate security agencies.
“Regardless of the provocation, rest assured that you can always submit your complaints to the NCAA, and they will be addressed. Self-help is not allowed in aviation,” he remarked.
Achimugu emphasized the importance of mutual respect between passengers and crew, mentioning that the NCAA has increased awareness campaigns regarding aviation regulations. He also urged passengers to turn off their phones when requested, clarifying that this action helps prevent potential interference with aircraft communication systems.
“Passengers appear to be more focused on their rights than their responsibilities,” he stated during the breakfast show.
