Kwam 1 and ValueJet: “Both Sides Breached ICAO Safety Protocols” – Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo Orders No-Fly Action Against Kwam 1 and Pilot Pending Investigation
By Ahmed Ameedat
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has ordered a no-fly action against popular Fuji musician Kwam 1 and a ValueJet pilot, stating that both sides breached standard safety protocols.
According to the Minister, reports and video footage submitted by relevant aviation agencies indicate that both parties involved in the incident displayed a temporary loss of control, which could have resulted in a serious safety breach.
The Minister described Kwam 1’s actions on the tarmac as unacceptable, noting that he repeatedly changed positions to block the aircraft from taxiing to the runway for takeoff.
“The issue of whether he was carrying water or alcohol is not the focus here. The physical obstruction of the aircraft is a grave safety violation, comparable to a hostage situation,” the Minister stated.
However, he also faulted the pilot’s conduct, stressing that no amount of provocation should have prompted the pilot to begin taxiing while an individual was still on the tarmac.
“Both sides breached standard safety protocols,” he emphasized.
While commending the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for its prompt action in suspending the pilot’s licence pending further investigation, the Minister criticized the agency for not taking similar action against Kwam 1.
“In line with the principle of fairness, I have directed the NCAA to place Kwam 1 on a no-fly list pending a full investigation. All airlines, both domestic and international, are to be immediately informed of this directive. Any airline that fails to comply risks the withdrawal of its operating licence,” the Minister warned.
