In a dramatic twist following an incident involving Fuji music icon Kwam 1 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has threatened severe sanctions, including licence withdrawal, for any airline that dares to fly the musician pending investigation.
Keyamo made the declaration on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, after receiving detailed reports and video evidence from relevant aviation agencies concerning the altercation between Kwam 1 and the crew of ValueJet Airlines.
“I have directed the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to place Kwam 1 on a No-Fly List pending a full and thorough investigation just like the Captain and Pilot involved,” Keyamo wrote.
He added that all airlines, both domestic and international, must be immediately notified of this directive. Any operator who disobeys the order “risks having their operating licence withdrawn.”
Providing further context, the Aviation Minister described the incident as a “temporary loss of sanity and control” by both parties, noting that the actions could have resulted in fatal consequences.
According to Keyamo, contrary to the claims made by Kwam 1’s representatives, the musician moved around on the tarmac and deliberately obstructed the aircraft’s movement as it attempted to taxi toward the runway for take-off.
“This is totally unacceptable behaviour. Whether he was holding a bottle of water or alcohol is irrelevant. The physical act of blocking an aircraft on the tarmac is tantamount to a hostage situation,” the minister stated.
A video clip showing the scene was reportedly submitted as part of the investigation.
While calling out Kwam 1’s actions, Keyamo also criticised the conduct of the Captain and Pilot, saying they violated basic aviation safety protocols by attempting to taxi the aircraft despite the presence of an unruly individual on the runway.
“No amount of provocation should have made the pilots begin taxiing without ensuring the safety of all individuals, including the removal of the passenger obstructing the aircraft,” he said.
Keyamo confirmed that the NCAA had already suspended the licences of the Captain and Pilot involved in the incident. However, he questioned the fairness of singling out only one side for disciplinary action.
“What applies to the goose must also apply to the gander. Justice must be balanced. I will not allow a double standard to stand under my watch,” he concluded.
What Happens Next?
The incident has triggered a wave of reactions on social media and across Nigeria’s aviation and entertainment sectors. The full investigation is still ongoing, and it remains to be seen whether the sanctions will extend beyond temporary suspensions.
With the Minister’s firm stance, this case may set a new precedent for aviation safety enforcement and celebrity conduct at airports across Nigeria.
