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KWAM1 as airport security ambassador: Matters arising

By Swill Mavua

The appointment of Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM1, as an Airport Security Ambassador has generated significant controversy and outrage on social media. Many Nigerians are questioning the decision, citing selective justice and double standards.

KWAM1 was involved in a security breach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where he attempted to board a ValueJet flight with a flask containing liquid despite repeated warnings from airline staff. The incident escalated, with KWAM1 splashing the liquid content in the flask on the pilot’s uniform, blocking the aircraft from taking-off, thereby disrupting departure, and causing significant delays and safety risks.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) initially placed KWAM1 on a no-fly list and demanded an investigation. However, many Nigerians felt that the response was inadequate, especially when compared to the treatment of Comfort Emmanson, a passenger who assaulted airline officials on an Ibom Air flight. Emmanson was swiftly arraigned and remanded to Kirikiri Correctional Facility, while KWAM1 seemed to receive more lenient treatment.

Besides, the pilot and her co-pilot in the ValueJet incident with KWAM1 had their licenses initially suspended for six, for what appears to be the height of injustice. Till date, NCAA and the Ministry of Aviation are yet to tell the world the crime the pilot and her co-pilot committed. Or was it a crime for the pilot to attempt taking charge of the situation? NCAA would need some explaining to do.

Despite the controversy, the Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo announced that KWAM1 would be appointed as an ambassador for airport security, citing the singer’s public apology and remorse. The decision has divided opinion online, with many expressing anger and disappointment over the perceived injustice. Some critics argue that KWAM1’s actions demonstrate a disregard for aviation safety protocols, making him an unsuitable candidate for the role.

Even at that, the so-called apology was more of a half-hearted remorse, filled with self-glorification and his personal contribution to nation building vide his musical career. After the said apology, he is reported to have boasted of “dealing with the owners of ValueJet Airline.” The apology has also received serious bashing in various social media networks. That the minister relied on the apology, not only to relieve KWAM1 of the consequences of his crime but to also elevate him to the position of airport security ambassador is questionable and insulting to the psyche of Nigerians. Keyamo as a man of letters and Senior Advocate of Nigeria ought to have known better.

Project Alert, an organization dedicated to protecting women’s rights, has condemned the incidents and called for decisive action to establish clear protocols for addressing unruly behavior. They emphasize that every incident must be handled with integrity and fairness, ensuring equal treatment for all individuals. Dr. Josef Onoh, Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of Enugu State House of Assembly, has also criticized the appointment, stating that it undermines aviation safety and damages Nigeria’s international reputation.

The Nigeria Police Force, which had earlier confirmed receipt of a petition against KWAM1 and has directed the Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, to investigate the matter thoroughly, is now left in limbo by the government’s pronouncements through Keyamo. Where he to be found guilty, KWAM1 could have faced legal repercussions, including a potential flight ban. But now the NCAA has also reduced KWAM1’s flight ban from six months to one month, citing his public apology and remorse. This is, no doubt, a show of double standards; and a clear confirmation of the rumour that a relationship exists between President Bola Tinubu and KWAM1, which has now been tainted before the public; and that no matter the level of his crime, KWAM1 is above the law.

Social media users have expressed outrage and disappointment over the appointment, with many questioning the government’s decision. Some have accused the government of rewarding bad behavior and perpetuating double standards. Others have called for equal treatment and accountability, emphasizing that everyone should be held to the same standards.

The controversy surrounding KWAM1’s appointment highlights the need for clear protocols and consistent enforcement of aviation safety regulations. It also raises questions about the role of influence and celebrity status in shaping outcomes. Ultimately, the decision will likely have implications for Nigeria’s aviation sector and its reputation globally.

      - The Strait Talk

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