Anietie Udobit, Abuja
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two ValueJet pilots, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba, for what it called a serious safety breach at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
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NCAA’s director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, said the suspended pilots allegedly bypassed mandatory pre-departure clearance procedures on August 5, 2025, initiating departure without clearance from air traffic control.
The NCAA insisted that suspending the two pilots operating ValueJet airline’s flight from Abuja to Lagos on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, was the best decision, as maintaining safety protocols remained sacrosanct no matter the situation.
He stated that the situation could have been worse if the plane had killed the inspection officer as shown on the viral video or even collided with another aircraft which had been cleared to move.
Reacting to the alleged unruly behaviour of a passenger, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (also known as K1 De Ultimate), Achimugu said passengers’ actions and inactions were usually treated as separate issues, adding, “Still, the pilot’s first duty is to ensure safety at all costs.”
However, he maintained that suspension did not mean indictment, and the final decision would be made after the full investigation of the incident.
Reacting to the development in an official statement on Wednesday, ValueJet airline acknowledged the incident and assured the public that it would fully cooperate with the NCAA as investigations continue.
The statement read, in part, “We acknowledge the seriousness of this incident and are fully cooperating with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in their ongoing investigation.
“The crew involved were removed immediately from active duty, pending the outcome of a thorough internal review and investigation.”
The airline emphasised that safety remained its top priority, promising full accountability and adherence to regulatory standards.
The airline added that “At ValueJet, safety is not negotiable. We operate under strict adherence to regulatory procedures and international safety standards.
“We remain committed to accountability and improvement across all levels of our operations.”
Meanwhile, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) announced on Wednesday in a statement by the Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah, that the matter remained under thorough investigation, and all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law.
Explaining the incident, Orah said preliminary investigations confirmed that the Fuji musician was scheduled to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValueJet Airlines (Flight VK 201). During boarding, he attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the flight captain.
“FAAN wishes to formally address the incident that occurred on Monday, 5th August 2025, at the domestic terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The incident involved a notable Nigerian musician. King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (also known as K1 De Ultimate), and a pilot of ValueJet Airlines.
“Preliminary investigations confirmed that the passenger was scheduled to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValueJet Airlines (Flight VK 201). During boarding, the passenger attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the Flight Captain.
“By international aviation security standards, specifically Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and ICAO Annexe 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.”
Orah said the Fuji musician allegedly refused and spilt the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol.
“As the boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for further clarification. The passenger allegedly refused and spilt the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol. The Flight Captain intervened but faced similar resistance. After confirming that boarding was complete, she instructed the closure of the aircraft door.
“At this juncture, the passenger moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to leave the area despite repeated requests. He was ultimately escorted away by the AVSEC crime unit for further investigation, after which he was released.
“FAAN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel. The Authority will not tolerate any action compromising operational integrity or undermining aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved.
“This matter remains under thorough investigation, and all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law,” she stated.