The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has placed Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as Kwam 1 or K1 De Ultimate, on a no-fly list pending investigations into his alleged breach of aviation safety protocols at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
In letters addressed to the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, the NCAA requested a thorough investigation and possible prosecution of the musician for actions it described as violations of Nigerian civil aviation regulations.
The aviation regulator also issued an advisory to members of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to immediately enforce the no-fly directive. The decision followed a Tuesday incident in which Marshal was captured in a viral video blocking a ValueJet aircraft from taking off after he was reportedly denied boarding.
Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo likened the situation to a “hostage” scenario. According to the NCAA, preliminary reports from flight VK201 indicate that Marshal engaged in behaviour that disrupted standard operational procedures and raised concerns about passenger conduct.
The incident reportedly began when Marshal was asked by airport security to surrender a liquid container exceeding the permissible 100ml limit for carry-on items. NCAA Public Affairs and Consumer Protection Director, Michael Achimugu, said the musician refused to comply, claiming a medical condition requiring frequent rehydration. Achimugu questioned whether such conduct would be tolerated at major international airports.
The regulator emphasised that aviation rules are universal and apply equally to all passengers, regardless of their public profile. Achimugu stressed that no individual is above the law, dismissing suggestions that the musician’s connections to the presidency could shield him from consequences.
As part of the disciplinary measures, the NCAA also suspended the licences of the flight’s pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, pending the outcome of the investigation. Achimugu stated that everyone involved in the incident, whether passenger or crew, would be held accountable.
Minister Keyamo, in a post on his X handle, said the video footage of the incident showed both the musician and the pilots engaging in “unacceptable behaviour.” He stated that Marshal physically blocked the aircraft from taxiing to the runway, describing the act as reprehensible. He also faulted the pilots for attempting to taxi without ensuring that both the passenger and security personnel had cleared the tarmac.
Keyamo said both sides violated safety protocols as set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). He commended the NCAA for taking swift action and confirmed that he had directed the inclusion of Marshal on the no-fly list while the investigation continues.
The NCAA reiterated that the enforcement of aviation safety rules is non-negotiable, warning that breaches would attract strict penalties. It said the ongoing case underscores the importance of maintaining discipline and compliance within Nigeria’s airspace, regardless of status or influence. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
