In a surprising twist, Fuji music icon Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, better known as K1 De Ultimate, has been named an ambassador for proper airport security protocol by the Federal Government.
The decision comes just days after the controversy surrounding his conduct at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where he was accused of obstructing a ValueJet aircraft from taxiing.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the move on Wednesday while unveiling measures to curb unruly behaviour at airports nationwide.
According to Keyamo, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reduced the six-month flight ban earlier imposed on the musician to one month.
Furthermore, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) will collaborate with him on public campaigns promoting proper conduct at airports.
“The NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to one month. FAAN will also partner with the music star to engage him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward,” Keyamo stated.
“Having publicly shown remorse, the NCAA will also withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1.”
The August 5 incident saw KWAM 1 involved in a heated altercation with airline staff and security officials after allegedly spilling liquid on a flight captain and walking onto the tarmac to block a plane’s movement.
Initially, the NCAA placed him on a no-fly list and filed a criminal complaint with the police.
However, notable appeals and the singer’s public apology prompted the government to soften its stance.
The Fuji star explained that the flask he carried that day contained water for medical purposes, not alcohol as alleged.
“The government will continue to strictly enforce safety and security laws in the aviation sector,” he said. “This should not be mistaken for tolerance of misconduct at our airports.”
