NCAA probes in-flight altercation between VeryDarkman, Mr Jollof

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has begun an investigation into the viral altercation between social media influencers VeryDarkman and Mr Jollof on United Nigeria Airlines Flight UN0523 at Asaba International Airport, Delta State.

The authority has directed its officials to look into the actions of aviation security personnel, the flight crew, and other staff involved in handling the situation.

NCAA spokesperson Michael Achimugu stated that the airline has yet to submit an official incident report, but the authority will do its part to investigate.

He noted that the NCAA doesn’t have prosecutorial powers, but will advise the airline to blacklist the passengers and write to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police to prosecute them.

The incident has sparked criticism, with some calling for stricter action against unruly passengers.

Achimugu emphasised that the NCAA will take appropriate action once the investigation is complete.

Achimugu wrote on X, “First, aviation security must deboard and arrest both passengers and take them to the investigation room. After questioning, a decision is made to prosecute them. Prosecution is not instant. What could happen faster is the airlines placing the unruly passengers on a no-fly list, and even that would happen after management meetings, debates, and action.

“This event in Asaba just happened. I was boarding a flight out of Nigeria when the report from an X user got to me. As soon as I landed at the transit airport, I made calls. I have been informed that both passengers were deplaned (this is good) and taken to the interrogation room.

“I have asked why the airline has not forwarded an incident report and I am told that they are presently in a management meeting. This is normal, too. Even abroad.

“What I can assure you is this: the NCAA will do its part. Our officers in Asaba have been tasked to find and report the exact actions taken by aviation security, pilot, and other personnel. This may go beyond just the two passengers. How long did it take for security to arrive? How long did the incident last before the pilot called for security, if he did.

“If the passengers were arrested, are they still in detention? If they were released, why? When all of these are decided, appropriate ramifications would be dished by relevant agencies.

“I must note that the NCAA does not have prosecutorial powers. The authority, as with previous cases, would surely advise the airline to blacklist the passengers and write the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, and the Inspector General of Police, IGP, to prosecute the unruly passengers.”

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