Photo caption: Minister for Aviation, Festus Keyamo
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has explained the reasons behind the Federal Government’s decision to name Fuji star, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol.
The development followed public outcry about the stance of the FG’s resolutions to recent cases of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports involving KWAM 1 and the Ibom Air passenger, Comfort Emmason’s unruly behaviour towards the airline’s air hostess.
Keyamo had earlier outlined that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s flight ban to one month and would work with the musician to promote awareness on acceptable conduct within the aviation space.
The minister maintained that there were appeals from well-meaning individuals, as well as KWAM 1’s public show of penitence over the August 5 incident in which he allegedly obstructed a ValueJet aircraft’s movement.
However, Nigerians on various social media platforms had adjudged the decision to be double-standard and uncalled for.
Justifying the decision on his official X handle on Wednesday, Keyamo wrote, “For further clarification, it is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to Community Service. It is not paid for, and it is a voluntary service.
“Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some would assume that once you hear the word ‘Ambassador’, it is a big position that comes with the perquisites of office.
“No, it is not. It is free. It is not the first time it has happened in Nigeria, and it will not be the last. Examples abound of such roles given to repentant persons by previous governments in Nigeria.”
He stressed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria are also looking at the option of using Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as their own Ambassador for good passenger conduct.
“Whilst the Aviation agencies are considering using KWAM 1 for such a role, in my discussion last night with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), they are also looking at the option of using Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as their own Ambassador for good passenger conduct.
“It is left for the AON to work out those details since she was actually released from prison custody today based on my earlier statement,” he added.
He further said that his ministry has been fair to all the people concerned in both incidents.
