Peter Obi slams ‘Double Standards’ after Ibom Air passenger lands in Kirikiri

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Former Presidential candidate Peter Obi, has publicly addressed the controversial handling of Miss Comfort Emmanson’s disruptive behaviour aboard a Uyo–Lagos Ibom Air flight.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Obi expressed both his apology to the airline crew and his deep concern over the treatment meted out to the young woman.

“The unfortunate and dishonourable drama witnessed in Ibom Air has again brought to the fore the double standards in our lives and the inadequacies of our various security operatives in acting decently and in a civilised manner,” Obi wrote.

He began by stating: “I want to start by sincerely apologising to the Ibom Air crew who were assaulted by Miss Comfort Emmanson. We must, as a society, learn and uphold good conduct, as it is a true measure of success and decent living.”

However, Obi did not shy away from sharp criticism of the punitive reaction that followed the incident. “I must equally strongly condemn the dehumanising treatment meted out to this young woman. Stripping her publicly was not only unnecessary but also represents the height of rascality and abuse by our agencies.”

He noted the disparity in the justice system, while Emmanson was promptly sent to court and remanded, another passenger who had allegedly delayed a flight and endangered lives was allowed to go unpunished.

“It is unacceptable that she was hurriedly taken to court and remanded, while someone who visibly held a plane from taking off and put hundreds of lives at risk is still at large,” Obi charged.

Pointing to a deeper systemic issue, Obi said, “This case is not just about one young woman, it is about the double standards that poison our justice system. Justice in Nigeria must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence or access to government officials.”

He urged a recalibration of the justice system to ensure equality, especially for vulnerable groups: “We must build a country where justice is fair, equal, and not selective, especially against women who are seen to be weaker.”

Critically, Obi compared the treatment of Emmanson to those accused of far graver crimes who often escape such public shaming.

“This young lady’s offence does not compare to the crimes committed daily by those parading themselves as ‘excellencies’ while looting public funds without consequence.”

He called for institutional accountability, addressing the aviation ministry directly: “The Minister of Aviation and other relevant authorities owe the public an explanation for these double standards in their adjudication. Justice must be just, or it is nothing at all. The rule of law based on justice for all must remain the guidepost of our democracy.”