NBA faults Ibom Air, Airline Operators over passenger Emmanson
By Idun Maximus
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned both the Ibom Air and Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) for the handling of Ms. Comfort Emmanson, describing their actions as reckless and a violation of her rights to dignity.
NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN in a statement, equally faulted the imposition of a lifetime flight ban on Ms. Emmanson without granting her a fair hearing.
Osigwe described the decision as heavy-handed, unlawful, and a serious affront to the rule of law and human dignity.
The NBA expressed outrage over reports and video evidence showing Ms. Emmanson being forcibly removed from an Ibom Air flight on August 10, 2025, stripped of her clothing in public, and filmed in a humiliating state — with the footage later circulating online.
“Such conduct is degrading, violates her right to dignity and privacy, and falls far short of the standards of civility and professionalism expected in the aviation sector,” the statement read.
The association also alleged that an Ibom Air hostess prevented Ms. Emmanson from disembarking the aircraft, a move it said could constitute false imprisonment and may have provoked the confrontation. It insisted on an independent investigation before any disciplinary measures are taken.
‘The power to suspend or restrict a passenger’s right to fly rests with the appropriate statutory regulator, not private associations or airline operators acting unilaterally,” Osigwe stated.
The NBA condemned the unedited filming and online distribution of the incident, calling it “an egregious invasion of privacy and a criminal act.” It demanded the prosecution of those responsible for recording and circulating the footage without concealing Ms. Emmanson’s nudity.
The NBA pledged to offer Ms. Emmanson pro bono legal support to seek redress for the alleged violations.
“We will not remain silent while the fundamental rights of any Nigerian are trampled upon, whether by public authorities, private corporations, or individuals. Respect for human dignity and the rule of law must never be compromised, and in this matter, justice must prevail,” the statement concluded.
