Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, has issued an apology following the altercation he had with the flight crew of ValuJet at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on August 5, 2025. The incident resulted in a six-month ban preventing him from flying through any Nigerian airport.
In a video statement released yesterday, KWAM 1 expressed regret over the incident but denied allegations made by the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) that he was carrying alcohol.
FAAN, in a statement on Wednesday, said preliminary investigations confirmed that KWAM 1 was scheduled to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValuJet Airlines (Flight VK 201). However, during boarding, he allegedly attempted to carry an unidentified liquid on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the flight captain.
The statement read:
“In accordance with international aviation security standards, specifically Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and ICAO Annex 17, liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted through security screening unless medically necessary and properly declared. The passenger was informed of this regulation but reportedly declined to comply.”
In his apology, KWAM 1 refuted the claim that he was carrying alcohol. He explained,
“The incident that occurred at the local wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on August 5, 2025, involving myself and ValuJet Airline, was, to say the least, unfortunate. Unknown to many, I suffer from chronic dehydration, and my doctor has strongly advised that I remain constantly hydrated. This is why I always carry a water flask with me. Contrary to the negative narrative circulating, the flask I carried that day contained only water—not alcohol as wrongly alleged.
“For the record, I passed through two security screenings with the flask empty. It was only filled with water at the lounge just before heading to the tarmac. This can be verified by CCTV footage at the airport lounge. Furthermore, I had not boarded the plane, let alone been de-boarded.
“However, I acknowledge and deeply regret the concerns arising from this incident. It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols.
“To the Presidency, Ministry of Aviation, FAAN, NCAA, ValuJet, fellow Nigerians, and my teeming fans worldwide who have expressed concern since the incident, I tender my unreserved and heartfelt apology.”
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, reacted on Thursday, describing the incident as a case of temporary loss of sanity and control on both sides, which could have escalated to serious fatalities.
“I have noted that the NCAA has temporarily suspended the licenses of the captain and pilot pending a full investigation. I have also directed the NCAA to place KWAM 1 on a no-fly list pending further investigation, similar to the captain and pilot. All airlines, domestic and international, should be immediately informed of this directive. Anyone who flouts this risks having their operating license revoked,” Keyamo said.
Following the six-month ban, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has petitioned the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.
