Human rights activist, Aisha Yesufu, has criticized the handling of the case involving Comfort Emmanson, the Ibom Air passenger arrested after a mid-flight altercation. Emmanson was recently remanded at Kirikiri Correctional Centre after allegedly assaulting a crew member and attempting to use a fire extinguisher during a flight from Uyo to Lagos on August 10.
According to reports, Emmanson had refused to switch off her phone when instructed. When another passenger intervened and turned it off, she reportedly reacted aggressively. The situation escalated, and she was accused of behavior that endangered the safety of the flight. As a result, Ibom Air banned her indefinitely, and the Airline Operators of Nigeria placed her on a lifetime no-fly list.
She was arrested, charged, and taken to court, where she was remanded in custody.
In a video posted on her social media account, Aisha Yesufu raised concerns over what she described as “selective justice”, stating that similar incidents involving high-profile individuals like Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM 1) and former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, were handled with leniency.
“Justice should be blind, not based on social class,” Yesufu argued. She emphasized that while Emmanson should be held accountable for any wrongdoing, the law must apply equally to all citizens.
Yesufu also criticized the manner in which Emmanson was handled during her arrest, claiming she was dragged and exposed, leading to public humiliation. She described it as an act of sexual harassment and a violation of human dignity.
“The mental impact of such treatment cannot be overstated. There are more professional and humane ways to handle such situations,” she said.
The activist urged authorities to ensure equality before the lawand called for an end to double standards in the Nigerian justice system.
