Fresh drama has erupted in Nigeria’s aviation sector as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), through the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has summoned Ibom Air cabin crew member, Juliana Edward, and controversial passenger, Comfort Emmanson, over the now-viral airport humiliation incident. The duo are expected to appear on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja as investigations move into a decisive phase.
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, confirmed the summons during an emergency security stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja on Tuesday. He disclosed that he had already spoken with Ms. Emmanson earlier in the morning and that official invitations were sent to both parties for further interrogation.
“Comfort Emmanson and the cabin crew member have been invited to present their sides of the story. They are expected here tomorrow,” Achimugu stated, reiterating NCAA’s commitment to full transparency. He clarified that the flight captain did not summon security operatives upon landing in Lagos, contrary to social media claims, noting that the matter appeared settled during the flight.
The NCAA, however, raised concerns over a reported delay in Emmanson’s disembarkation after she used the plane’s restroom post-landing — a moment during which tensions allegedly reignited. Officials believe this timeframe is critical to uncovering how the confrontation escalated into what became a national embarrassment.
Chairman, Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Buhari Abdulfatai, blamed both passengers and industry staff for “declining discipline,” calling the incident another example of misconduct fuelled by tensions and pressure in Nigeria’s busiest terminals. He stressed the need for new behavioural and ethical enforcement policies at airports nationwide.
In response, NCAA has issued a fresh directive mandating that all mobile phones must be completely powered off — not just placed on flight mode — during take-off and landing phases, describing it as both a safety and conflict prevention strategy. The move is already sparking debate among frequent flyers.
The country awaits Wednesday’s investigative grilling, which could determine heavy sanctions, policy reforms — and possible legal action — in a case that has shaken public confidence in aviation safety, customer protection and staff conduct across Nigerian skies.
