IGP orders probe into KWAM 1 over Abuja Airport flight drama

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Nigeria Police Force has initiated a thorough investigation into an alleged incident involving renowned Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.

This follows a petition from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The petition accuses KWAM 1 of engaging in “unruly conduct that allegedly obstructed the safe operation of an aircraft,” in violation of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023, during an incident on August 5, 2025, at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, Force Public Relations Officer DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi announced that “the Nigeria Police Force has received an official petition from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)” regarding the incident.

The statement detailed that Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has responded decisively, directing “the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the matter, to unravel the circumstances which led to the ugly incident and ensure justice is served accordingly.”

The incident reportedly occurred during boarding procedures for a ValueJet Airlines flight (Flight VK 201) from Abuja to Lagos.

According to reports, KWAM 1 attempted to board with a flask containing an unidentified liquid, later identified as alcohol, in violation of aviation security regulations prohibiting liquids exceeding 100ml unless medically necessary and properly declared.

When challenged by Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the flight captain, KWAM 1 allegedly spilled the liquid on an officer and attempted to obstruct the aircraft’s takeoff, leading to his temporary detention by the AVSEC crime unit.

The NCAA has since imposed a six-month no-fly ban on KWAM 1 and petitioned both the Attorney-General of the Federation and the IGP for his prosecution, citing potential charges under the Criminal Code Act, which carries a penalty of up to two years’ imprisonment for obstructing aircraft movement.

The Nigeria Police Force emphasized its commitment to aviation safety, with Adejobi stating, “The Force hereby assures the public of its commitment to upholding safety and security within Nigeria’s aviation sector, while assuring stakeholders in the sector of improved collaboration towards aviation security and strict compliance with aviation laws.”

The investigation aims to establish the full circumstances of the incident and ensure accountability.

KWAM 1 has pushed back against the allegations, with his media aide, Kunle Rasheed, claiming the narrative was “exaggerated and misleading” and asserting that the liquid was “plain drinking water.”

The musician’s team also noted that airline executives offered to arrange a private jet for him, an offer he declined, suggesting he was unfairly targeted.

Despite these claims, the NCAA and police are pressing forward with their actions, underscoring the gravity of aviation safety violations.