society
Ibom Air Show of Shame: Young Lady Remanded While Real Criminals Soar Free
Ibom Air Show of Shame: Young Lady Remanded While Real Criminals Soar Free.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
The recent altercation between a female passenger and the authorities involving Ibom Air, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Police has sparked widespread outrage. What should have been a routine passenger-management situation instead escalated into a shameful public spectacle, exposing deep cracks in Nigeria’s aviation professionalism, passenger relations and law enforcement conduct.
According to eyewitnesses and expert analysis, the passenger in question was subjected to humiliating treatment (including being physically dragged and exposed in public) a gross violation of her dignity and basic human rights. The scene, captured and shared across social media, has become a symbol of everything wrong with the heavy-handed, unprofessional approach too often witnessed in Nigeria’s transport sector.
Aviation Standards Thrown to the Wind.
Matthew Okodugha, an advocate for good governance, did not mince words when commenting on the conduct of the Ibom Air lead crew member. “The behavior of the Ibom Air lead crew fell short of all professional conduct,” he said. “She obviously threw professionalism to the bin. In our days, someone like Mr. Kayode Odukoya would have suspended her from airport operations immediately.”
This is not mere sentiment, but an insider’s verdict from someone who understands the aviation sector’s highest standards. According to retired senior cabin crew members, the lead crew’s body language alone indicated a loss of composure and a lack of interpersonal skill, a fundamental requirement for anyone tasked with managing passengers in tense situations.
A former senior cabin crew who flew with Bellview Airlines and Aero Contractors for over a decade explained that professional cabin crew are trained to manage passenger non-compliance (such as not turning off a phone) with tact and calm authority, not with confrontation. The industry is replete with examples where calm persuasion prevents escalation. “I once had to convince Mama NAFDAC to turn off her phone before takeoff,” the former crew member recalled. “She gave me a sharp look, but no drama. That is the difference between training and composure.”
The Overblown Phone Rule Debate.
At the heart of the dispute lies the long-standing regulation requiring passengers to turn off their mobile phones during takeoff and landing. While this rule still exists in Nigeria, many modern aviation authorities have moved toward allowing “airplane mode” usage, backed by advanced cockpit shielding technology. In countries such as the United States, UK and across the EU, regulators like the FAA and EASA have relaxed their bans, citing minimal interference risks with modern aircraft systems.
This is where Nigerian aviation seems stuck in the past. The female passenger’s refusal or delay in turning off her phone was not a life-or-death threat to the flight. If she was genuinely willing to leave the aircraft, there was no operational necessity to drag her in such a degrading manner. The overzealous approach by FAAN security and Ibom Air ground staff reflected an outdated enforcement culture,; one that prioritizes force over professionalism.
As aviation analyst and author Captain John Cox notes, “Passenger management is about defusing tensions, not escalating them. The best crew members are those you never see lose their cool.” Sadly, what unfolded at Ibom Air was the exact opposite.
FAAN Security: Policing or Intimidation?
The FAAN security team’s involvement in this debacle was another low point. Instead of acting as neutral peacekeepers, they appeared to take sides, physically restraining and humiliating the passenger. This behaviour mirrors the notorious street-policing style in Nigeria, one driven more by intimidation than service.
FAAN has long faced criticism for its lack of modern customer-service orientation. Reports of brusque treatment, shouting and unnecessary force at Nigerian airports are commonplace. This incident merely confirms what regular travelers already know that FAAN’s frontline operatives need extensive retraining in conflict resolution and passenger relations.
“It is unacceptable that security agencies in the aviation sector act on emotions rather than established protocols,” said Dr. Abiodun Shobowale, a governance and security expert. “You cannot humiliate a passenger in public and then expect to be seen as a credible authority.”
Law Enforcement’s Emotional Overreach.
Perhaps the most disturbing part of the episode was the speed with which the police moved to remand the woman at Kirikiri Prison. Without the benefit of a thorough investigation and based largely on the airline and FAAN’s version of events, law enforcement’s knee-jerk reaction underscored how deeply emotion (not justice) drives official responses in Nigeria.
The swiftness of her arraignment compared to the sluggishness in prosecuting far more serious aviation breaches by politically connected individuals is telling. As human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has repeatedly pointed out, “In Nigeria, the scale of justice tilts heavily depending on who you are. The law is swift for the powerless and sluggish for the powerful.”
The question that must be asked is simple: If this passenger had been a high-profile individual or the relative of a political figure, would she have been treated in the same manner? Aviation insiders and public opinion alike strongly doubt it.
Public Relations and Training Failures.
This incident is a case study in how not to manage a crisis. In the age of social media, public perception can make or break an airline’s reputation overnight. Instead of de-escalating, Ibom Air’s crew and FAAN’s operatives fueled the fire through their conduct, creating a viral scandal.
Aviation consultant Dr. Chika Onyema warns that “Airlines must invest in recurrent training that goes beyond safety drills. Public relations, body language and emotional intelligence should be core parts of annual crew recertification.” Unfortunately, Nigerian airlines often treat these as optional extras, to the detriment of passenger experience and brand image.
The recommended approach in such situations is clear:
Offer the passenger an opportunity to disembark without humiliation.
Avoid physical contact unless there is a direct threat to safety.
Keep discussions away from the public eye to preserve dignity.
Involve neutral mediators before calling in security.
None of these steps were followed in the Ibom Air case.
A Call for Accountability and Reform.
This incident is more than a one-off embarrassment; it is a wake-up call. FAAN, Ibom Air and Nigeria’s aviation regulators must urgently overhaul their passenger engagement protocols. This includes:
Updating policies in line with global best practices.
Training crew and security personnel in de-escalation techniques.
Introducing independent review panels for passenger complaints.
Ensuring that enforcement actions are proportionate and humane.
As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.” In this case, Nigeria’s aviation authorities failed that test spectacularly.
Final Analysis: Do Better
The Ibom. Air–FAAN–police saga should never have happened. It is a blot on Nigeria’s aviation image and a reminder that professionalism cannot be replaced by power play. The woman at the centre of the storm may have been wrong in her initial non-compliance, but the punishment (humiliation, public dragging, and swift imprisonment) was not just disproportionate; it was inhumane.
FAAN, Ibom Air and the Nigerian Police must reflect deeply on this “show of shame” and commit to doing better in the future. Passengers are not enemies; they are the lifeblood of the aviation industry. Treat them with dignity, and the industry thrives. Treat them with contempt and both reputation and trust take a nosedive.
~ George Omagbemi Sylvester
Epe Premier Club Meets Obasa Ahead of Baba Bamu’s Immortalisation
The leadership of the prestigious Epe Premier Club on Wednesday, January 28, paid a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, as part of preparations for the Club’s inaugural immortalisation ceremony in honour of their founding fathers.
Led by Hon. Abiodun Mustainu Tobun, the delegation briefed Speaker Obasa on the Club’s resolve to inaugurate a new era of recognising and immortalising iconic figures who contributed significantly to the socio-political and cultural development of Epe Division while they are still alive. He explained that the Club had unanimously selected Alhaji Akanni Seriki Bamu—a respected member of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) and political leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Epe Division—as the first honouree.
Hon. Tobun emphasised that Baba Bamu embodies leadership, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the growth of Epe, describing him as a mentor and pillar whose contributions have shaped the region’s political trajectory.
Responding, Speaker Obasa commended the Epe Premier Club for its foresight in institutionalising a programme to honour the legacies of distinguished individuals. He applauded the choice of Alhaji Seriki Bamu, noting that his impact, political maturity, and statesmanship continue to resonate across Lagos State.
Obasa expressed gratitude for the invitation and assured the delegation of his support and presence at the celebration, stressing the importance of recognising leaders who have given immensely to community and state development.
The courtesy visit also provided a platform for broader conversations on civic engagement, community empowerment, and collaborations aimed at further advancing Epe Division.
The immortalisation ceremony for Alhaji Akanni Seriki Bamu will take place in the coming weeks and is expected to draw dignitaries, community stakeholders, and residents in large numbers.
society
Africa Gospel Film Project Launched to Train a New Generation of Christian Filmmakers Across Africa
Africa Gospel Film Project Launched to Train a New Generation of Christian Filmmakers Across Africa
Abuja, Nigeria – January 2026 — Gospel Cinema International has officially announced the launch of the Africa Gospel Film Project (AGFP), a bold, multi-year capacity-building and film production initiative designed to equip African Christian filmmakers with professional skills, spiritual depth, and global distribution pathways.
Africa is home to over 600 million Christians, yet African faith-based films remain significantly underrepresented in global catalogues. AGFP was created to address this gap by training filmmakers, producing premium-quality faith-based content, and strategically connecting Africa’s Christian film ecosystem to the global market.
The project will launch its first phase with a 6-Day Immersive Filmmaking & Spiritual Formation Program, scheduled to hold April 13–18, 2026, in Nigeria, followed by the production of an 8-episode faith-based series later in the year.
“Film is one of the most powerful tools shaping culture and belief today,” said Bright Wonder Obasi, president of Gospel Cinema International. “Africa Gospel Film Project is not just about making films—it is about shaping storytellers who understand both excellence and spiritual responsibility.”
AGFP will focus on:
Professional training in screenwriting, directing, cinematography, editing, producing, and acting
Deep spiritual formation and mentorship
Collaborative production and international distribution pathways.
Gospel Cinema International is a faith-driven film development organization committed to training, producing, and distributing impactful Christian films that shape culture and inspire faith globally.
Applications and partnership discussions are now open.
For applications and information:
visit www.gospelcinemaint.com
Email [email protected]
Follow @gosplecinemtrybe across social media for updates.
2027: Group Urges Information Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi to Contest Niger Governorship
A group known as the Niger Progressives & Prosperity Promoters (NPPP) has issued a strong public appeal urging Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, to contest the 2027 governorship election in Niger State.
In a statement dated January 27, 2026, signed by Dr. Ibrahim K. Mohammed as convener, the group criticized the current administration under Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for what it described as excessive international travels, unfulfilled agreements, and lack of tangible development in areas like water supply, jobs, agriculture, security, and infrastructure, despite the state’s abundant resources.
The statement described Malagi—a former governorship aspirant in 2023, media entrepreneur, and federal minister—as the ideal candidate, highlighting his calm, strategic, results-oriented leadership style, national experience, and ability to deliver without theatrics or corruption.
It emphasized that the call transcends party lines and urged youths, elders, professionals, farmers, and community leaders to rally behind competence for Niger State’s progress, describing the moment as a critical crossroads where delay risks further decline.
Full Press Statement:
Enough Is Enough: A Clarion Call on Mohammed Idris Malagi to Step Forward in 2027.
There comes a moment in the life of a people when patience expires and silence becomes betrayal. Niger State has reached that moment.
Our state stands at a dangerous crossroads rich in land, water, and people, yet poor in outcomes; blessed with opportunity, yet trapped in underperformance. What we suffer today is not a lack of promises, but a surplus of them. Not a lack of travels, agreements, or signatures, but a tragic absence of results.
For three years, Niger State has been subjected to a governance style that prioritizes junketing over delivery leaders hopping from the USA to the UAE, from Russia to China, Brazil to South Africa, Egypt to Singapore. From Lagos State to Dangote multi billion agreements, signing glossy Memoranda of Understanding that never translate into water in our taps, food on our tables, jobs for our youths, or dignity for our people.
Agreements without impact are not achievements. Frequent flights without measurable outcomes are not leadership. Sophisticated paperwork masking systemic corruption is not governance. Niger State does not need a globe-trotting signatory-in-chief. Niger State needs a governor.
Why the Call Is Now Unavoidable:
This is why the call across Niger State is no longer cautious or quiet. It is bold, collective, and unmistakable:
Mohammed Idris Malagi must hear the cry of the masses, the unpaid pensioners, the poor farmers that have not seen fertilizer for their farms, and the teeming unemployed youths to contest for the Governorship of Niger State in 2027.
This is no longer a suggestion. It is a call to duty. The people are tired of leadership that manages decline instead of driving development. Tired of carefully crafted speeches that produce no schools, no hospitals, no security, no water, and no agricultural value chain. Tired of a system that looks sophisticated on paper but is rotten in practice.
Niger State must break free from this cycle.
What Niger State Needs Now Is Calm, Astute, and Results-Driven Leadership.
Mohammed Idris Malagi represents a fundamentally different leadership model one rooted in calm authority, strategic thinking, and execution, not noise, lousiness or theatrics.
His leadership style is not impulsive or erratic. It is measured, deliberate, and intelligent. He listens, analyzes, decides, and delivers. He does not confuse activity with productivity or visibility with value. He share responsibility and respect views and dialogues.
At the national level, Malagi has demonstrated a deep understanding of how power, policy, and institutions truly function not in theory, but in reality. He has mastered the ability to articulate vision clearly and earn public confidence without intimidation or propaganda.
He has the discipline to operate under intense pressure while maintaining clarity, composure, and direction. With the capacity to move complex systems from decision to implementation, not endless committees, fraudulent entities and excuses. This is executive leadership, this is governor-level competence. Niger State does not need a power monger who monopolizes authority at the expense of good governance. It needs a leader already tested by complexity.
Niger State cannot afford anymore four years of experimental governance. Another cycle of foreign trips with no domestic impact. Another administration that signs agreements while communities remain abandoned. Another sophisticated corruption network dressed up as reform of “New Niger” an agenda of multiple corruption must not be allowed to continue, to be governed by a system that looks modern but delivers poverty.
A Leadership Moment That Cannot Be Deferred is now.
At crossroads, delay equals decline.
Insecurity deepens while opportunities slip away. Public trust erodes while governance becomes increasingly disconnected from lived realities. Incrementalism is no longer an option.
Niger State see in Malagi as the next governor that will be Prepared, not rehearsing; Decisive, not tentative; Calm, not chaotic; Nationally respected, yet deeply rooted in local realities; Bold enough to reform systems, not merely administer decay.
Mohammed Idris Malagi fits this moment not by coincidence, but by competence.
Beyond Party Lines, For Niger State
This clarion call is not anchored on any political party. It is anchored on capacity, courage, and commitment.
Political parties are vehicles. Leadership is the engine.
On whatever platform the people choose, Mohammed Idris Malagi represents a unifying option one capable of bridging zones, generations, faiths, and political divides. This is not about comfort or convention; it is about survival, progress, and dignity.
To Mohammed Idris Malagi: History Is Knocking
History does not knock endlessly. When it does, it demands a response.
This is not about personal ambition. It is about responsibility to a state at risk of prolonged stagnation. The people are watching. The moment is ripe. The call is clear.
Mohammed Idris Malagi, Niger State calls on you to contest for Governor in 2027.
Step forward. Offer your service. Accept the burden of leadership.
The Movement Starts Now
This is a call to youths and elders, professionals and farmers, traders, artisans, traditional rulers, and religious leaders across Niger State:
Rally around competence, not convenience.
Choose results over rhetoric.
Demand leadership, not excuses.
Let it be said that when Niger State stood at a crossroads, its people chose direction over drift, courage over comfort, and leadership over illusion.
2027 must be the year Niger State takes its future back.
And that future must begin with decisive, calm, and competent leadership.
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