ABUJA — Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, has described the dramatic face-off between Fuji music icon, King Ayinde Marshal (popularly known as KWAM 1), and ValueJet staff as “a temporary loss of sanity and control on both sides,” while taking decisive action against all parties involved.
In a detailed statement shared via his official X handle, Keyamo confirmed he had personally reviewed security footage from the controversial incident, which occurred on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
He dismissed attempts by the singer’s associates to downplay the episode, stating clearly that KWAM 1 was seen “constantly moving his position to actually block the aircraft from taxiing,” a move the Minister described as “totally unacceptable behaviour” and akin to a “hostage situation.”
“It doesn’t matter whether he was holding water or alcohol,” Keyamo said. “The physical blockage of an aircraft on a live runway is a grave security and safety violation.”
Turning to the actions of the ValueJet crew, Keyamo also criticized the pilot and captain for beginning the taxiing process without first confirming that security personnel had removed the obstruction.
“No amount of provocation should have made them proceed while an unruly passenger was still in front of the aircraft,” he stated.
As a result, Keyamo has endorsed the temporary suspension of both the captain and pilot by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), pending the outcome of a full investigation.
In a bold move, the minister also ordered the NCAA to immediately place KWAM 1 on a no-fly list, warning that both local and international airlines must comply or risk having their operating licences withdrawn.
“This is to ensure that such reckless conduct is never repeated,” Keyamo concluded.
The incident has sparked nationwide debate over the growing indiscipline in the aviation sector and the urgent need to reinforce safety protocols — regardless of status or fame.
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