A heated incident on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos has sparked celebrity backlash. Kate Henshaw, Simi, and Bovi are among those condemning the airline’s handling of passenger Comfort Emmanson.
On August 10, viral videos showed Emmanson arguing with flight attendants before clashing with airport security. In one clip, officers dragged her off the aircraft, and her breasts were exposed during the struggle. The footage quickly ignited outrage online.
Ibom Air said the confrontation began before takeoff when Emmanson refused to turn off her phone, breaking aviation safety rules. Another passenger switched off the device, which allegedly triggered her outburst. Upon arrival in Lagos, she reportedly confronted and struck a crew member.
The airline called her actions a major safety threat and banned her from all flights. Police arrested her, and a Lagos court ordered her remand at Kirikiri Correctional Centre until October 6. She faces charges of assault and property damage.
Public and Celebrity Reactions
Public opinion remains split. Some argue that others provoked her and point to softer treatment of public figures in similar cases, like Fuji musician Kwam 1. Others insist she must face legal consequences.
Singer Simi condemned sharing the video that exposed Emmanson’s body. She stressed that the person who posted it should also face justice.
“Even if she was wrong, posting her exposed body online without blurring it is unacceptable. She will face the law, but the one who shared that footage must be held accountable,” Simi wrote on Instagram.
Comedian Bovi, in a now-deleted post, praised the airline staff for staying calm. However, he suggested Emmanson may have suffered a mental health crisis.
“That looked like a manic episode. She should face the law but also get medical treatment. Many people live with unhealed trauma,” he stated.
Ongoing Debate
The case has renewed discussions on passenger rights, mental health awareness, and responsible media conduct. While some call for strict enforcement of safety rules, others urge compassion and better crisis management.
