Ibom Air denies posting indecent video, explains it could have be recorded and posted by another passenger
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
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“The video was recorded on the plane, but there were several people on board who were not Ibom Air employees. Anyone could have taken it.
“I can tell you categorically that Ibom Air did not release the video. We do not condone such indecent exposure, and it is unfortunate that the video has gone viral” – Ibom Air spokesperson
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Ibom Air has denied recording or releasing the viral video showing a stripped naked passenger Comfort Emmanson being dragged off its plane at Lagos Airport on Sunday that exposed the airline to heavy criticism.
Ibom Air Group Manager, Marketing and Communications, Aniekan Essienette, distanced the carrier from the footage that has stirred outrage across social media and over which Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has threatened to sanction the individual or individuals who posted it.
“The video was recorded on the plane, but there were several people on board who were not Ibom Air employees. Anyone could have taken it,” Essienette explained on TVC.
“I can tell you categorically that Ibom Air did not release the video. We do not condone such indecent exposure, and it is unfortunate that the video has gone viral.”
The incident occurred after Emmanson allegedly refused to switch off her electronic device in defiance of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) safety rules, which require devices to be completely powered down during flights.
Essienette said the pilot-in-command called security after the passenger resisted disembarking, prompting the cabin crew to restrain her.
“Our crew had to restrain her to ensure security could escort her off the plane.”
The airline’s explanation came amid growing public criticism of how Emmanson was manhandled, with many Nigerians describing it as humiliating and degrading.
However, Essienette defended the airline’s safety-first approach.
“Ibom Air values our customers and prides itself on reliability and excellent service. We remain committed to these principles.
“Most people obey the rule to switch off devices. The airline environment is controlled, and safety must come first.”
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