Despite public apologies from Nigerian comedian Freedom Atsepoyi, popularly known as Mr Jollof, and social media activist Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, the investigation into their recent altercation on a United Nigeria Airlines flight is still ongoing. The airline has yet to take a formal stance on the incident, which caused a significant delay for passengers and has attracted national attention.
Both men released separate videos explaining their perspectives and expressing remorse. In their apologies, they acknowledged the disruption caused to passengers, the airline, and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), while appealing for forgiveness. Reports had earlier suggested that the duo could face criminal charges as a result of the confrontation, which occurred onboard and disrupted the scheduled flight.
On Instagram, Mr Jollof shared his account of the events, stressing that he is not naturally violent and only acted in self-defence. He extended his apologies to the passengers, the airline, and the NCAA for the inconvenience caused.
“I want to sincerely apologise to the NCAA, United Nigeria Airlines, and all the passengers affected. I was only defending myself. I am sorry if I disrupted your schedules or delayed your appointments. I am not that kind of person, and it will never happen again. To my lovely wife and children, I am sorry; Daddy will ensure this does not repeat,” he said, pledging that he would never be involved in a similar incident in the future.
VeryDarkMan, on the other hand, expressed regret but was less definitive about avoiding future confrontations. He apologised to passengers and the airline and admitted his actions were irresponsible. “What happened yesterday should not have occurred, and I take full responsibility,” he said. “Many passengers had important commitments, from business meetings to medical emergencies, and my behaviour caused unnecessary delays. I sincerely apologise to everyone affected, especially an elderly woman who repeatedly urged me to sit down. I also apologise to those who looked up to me or felt disappointed by my actions.”
VDM noted that while he could not guarantee he would never get into another altercation, he promised that such behaviour would never take place on a plane, bus, or any other public setting that could impede others from reaching their destinations. He acknowledged the embarrassment caused by the incident and accepted the responsibility for the consequences.
Meanwhile, United Nigeria Airlines has maintained that the matter is under review. In a statement to The PUNCH, the airline’s spokesperson, Chibuike Uloka, confirmed that no official position had yet been taken, stressing that the investigation is still ongoing. When asked if the airline would consider the apologies in their decision, Uloka reiterated that investigations are continuing and that no conclusions had been reached.
The incident highlights the consequences of public confrontations in confined spaces and the responsibilities of public figures in setting examples for their followers. While both Mr Jollof and VeryDarkMan have expressed regret, the final outcome of the airline’s investigation remains pending, leaving the possibility of further action open.
