KWAM1 was reacting to allegation that he attempted to board a ValueJet flight with an “unidentified liquid substance” in a flask.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Ace Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, better known as KWAM1, has issued an apology over his role in an incident which occurred at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja on Tuesday.
Speaking via a statement he released on Friday, the singer offered a heartfelt apology to the Presidency, the Ministry of Aviation, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, (FAAN), NCAA, ValueJet and his fans.
On August 5, FAAN accused the 68-year-old music icon of attempting to board a ValueJet flight to Lagos with an “unidentified liquid substance” in a flask.
It further revealed that he allegedly ignored aviation security (AVSEC) warnings and the flight captain’s instructions, and reportedly spilled alcohol on airport staff during a confrontation.
Subsequently, he was barred from flying for six months after the Federal Government placed him on a no-fly-list.
However, while addressing the saga, the Fuji maestro described the incident as an “unfortunate” situation.
ALSO READ: KWAM1 faces six months flight ban as NCAA wades into alleged airport security breach saga
He also denied allegations that his flask contained alcohol, stating instead that it held only water—a necessity, he said, due to a medical condition.
KWAM1 said: “The incident that occurred at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on August 5, 2025, involving my humble self and ValueJet Airline, was to say the least, unfortunate.
“Unknown to many, I suffer from chronic dehydration, and my doctor strongly advised that I remain constantly hydrated. This is why I always carry a water flask with me. And contrary to the negative narrative being circulated in some quarters, the flask I carried on that particular day contained only water — not alcohol, as wrongly alleged.
“For the record, I passed through two security screenings with the flask empty. The flask was only filled with water at the lounge area, just before heading to the tarmac. This fact can be verified by the CCTV footage at the airport lounge. More so, I hadn’t even boarded the plane, let alone being deboarded.
“However, I acknowledge and deeply regret the concerns that arose from the incident. It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols in any way.
“That said, the incident is sincerely regretted. I remain committed to upholding the values and responsibilities that come with being a global ambassador of Nigerian music and culture.
“To the Presidency, Ministry of Aviation, FAAN, NCAA, ValueJet, fellow Nigerians, and my teeming fans across the world who have shown great concern since the incident happened, I tender my unreserved and heartfelt apology.”
