Emmanson: Conflicting narratives emerge over Ibom air passenger’s incident

Conflicting accounts have surfaced regarding an altercation involving 26-year-old Comfort Emmanson on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos, with eyewitnesses disputing the airline’s version of events.

Airline’s Account

Ibom Air alleged that before take-off, Emmanson refused to switch off her phone despite safety instructions, only complying after the Pilot-in-Command intervened.

Upon arrival in Lagos, the airline claimed she attacked a flight attendant, tore off her wig, removed her glasses, slapped her repeatedly, and assaulted another crew member.

She also allegedly attempted to use a fire extinguisher as a weapon and fought with security personnel before being restrained.

Eyewitness Accounts

Some passengers dispute this account, accusing the crew of provoking the incident. In an audio clip posted on X by user UnkleAyo, an unidentified passenger alleged that the attendant was “power drunk,” smashed Emmanson’s phone despite it being in flight mode, and blocked her from disembarking after landing.

Another passenger’s WhatsApp post claimed security was called unnecessarily over the phone dispute.

Aftermath

Emmanson has appeared before an Ikeja Magistrate’s Court in Lagos. The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has placed her on a lifetime no-fly list.

The incident has sparked online debate, with public opinion divided between the airline and the passenger.