Passenger ban without fair hearing ‘unlawful’ –NBA

The Nigerian Bar Association has called for the immediate reversal of the lifetime flight ban placed on Ms. Comfort Emmanson by Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria, calling the action as “arbitrary, unlawful, and a violation of human dignity.” The legal body said the passenger was punished without being given a fair hearing, insisting that only the statutory regulator has the power to impose such sanctions.

NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN) and Secretary-General Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara said emerging footage suggested the incident may have been worsened by the conduct of an airline hostess, who allegedly blocked Ms. Emmanson from leaving the aircraft. The association also condemned the recording and online circulation of unedited video showing the passenger’s nudity, calling it an egregious invasion of privacy and a criminal offence.

The lawyers’ body demanded the arrest and prosecution of those behind the filming and distribution of the footage, an impartial investigation into the events, and sanctions against all responsible parties. It also urged the Minister of Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to ensure compliance with standards for humane passenger treatment.

Pledging free legal representation to Ms. Emmanson, the NBA vowed to secure redress for the “grave violations” she suffered, warning that it would not remain silent when the rights of Nigerians are trampled by any entity, whether public or private.