NCAA Summons Ibom Air Crew and Comfort Emmanson Over In-Flight Incident

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has summoned Comfort Emmanson, Juliana Edward, and members of the Ibom Air cabin crew for further investigation into the August 10 incident aboard a Uyo–Lagos flight, where viral videos showed Emmanson being physically dragged by airline staff.

Mr. Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, confirmed the development on Tuesday during the Emergency National Civil Aviation Security Committee and Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abuja.

“I have spoken with Ms. Emmanson this morning. We are also inviting the Ibom Air cabin crew for continued investigation on the incident. They will be here tomorrow,” Achimugu stated while responding to questions after his presentation.

He added that initial discussions with Emmanson had already taken place earlier that day, and further questioning would proceed on Wednesday to clarify the circumstances of the incident.

Achimugu explained that the pilot-in-command did not alert security officials upon arrival in Lagos because the issue seemed to have been resolved before departure from Uyo. However, Emmanson’s decision to visit the restroom after landing meant she was the last to disembark—an action that reportedly escalated tensions and drew further attention to the matter.

The NCAA spokesperson emphasized that a comprehensive investigation is underway to establish all facts, acknowledging the public concern generated by the incident.

Also speaking at the meeting, Senator Buhari Abdulfatai, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, pointed to growing indiscipline among air travelers and lapses in professional conduct by crew and airport staff as major contributors to the rise in unruly behavior within Nigeria’s aviation sector.

While condemning the actions of some industry players who routinely flout established rules, Abdulfatai praised the NCAA’s ongoing efforts to enforce regulatory standards. He urged other aviation agencies to strengthen their support in protecting the integrity and safety of the sector.