Stripped, filmed, banned: NBA defends passenger in airline controversy

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the treatment of Comfort Emmanson aboard an Ibom Air flight, describing the incident as a serious violation of her human rights and dignity.

In a statement released on Monday, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, and General Secretary Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara expressed deep concern over what they called the unlawful removal and public humiliation of Emmanson.

They noted that she was allegedly stripped and forcibly removed from the aircraft, with the incident recorded and circulated on social media.

The NBA criticized both Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) for imposing a lifetime flight ban on Emmanson without giving her a fair hearing. They stated that such actions disregard due process and the rule of law.

According to the association, video evidence showed an airline hostess obstructing Emmanson’s exit from the aircraft, a move the NBA said could amount to false imprisonment and may have worsened the situation.

The NBA emphasized that only the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has the legal authority to issue or revoke flight bans, not private groups like AON. They called on AON to immediately withdraw the ban, and for Ibom Air to issue a public apology.

The association further demanded an independent investigation into the incident and urged the Ministry of Aviation, the NCAA, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and relevant security agencies to investigate and sanction any individuals found guilty of misconduct.

Additionally, the NBA denounced the unauthorized filming and sharing of the incident, labeling it a criminal invasion of privacy. They called for those responsible for the video’s circulation to be identified and prosecuted.

In solidarity with Emmanson, the NBA pledged to provide her with free legal representation in any proceedings related to the incident.

PM News earlier reported that Emerson is presently in Kirikiri prison pending when her matter will taken to court.