The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that the final decision regarding the fate of veteran Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as K1 de Ultimate or KWAM1, now rests with the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General of the Federation. This follows a viral video showing the singer’s controversial face-off with officials of ValueJet Airline at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
The incident, which saw KWAM1 attempt to obstruct the plane’s takeoff by standing on the tarmac, has led to a series of swift and severe actions from aviation authorities. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the NCAA had previously announced a six-month flying ban on the musician, describing his actions as “akin to a hostage situation.” The pilots involved were also suspended and are under investigation for breaching safety protocols by starting to taxi with an obstruction still on the tarmac.
In a move to escalate the matter, the NCAA, on Thursday, submitted a petition to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police, demanding a comprehensive probe and prosecution of the singer. Speaking to the press, NCAA spokesman Michael Achimugu clarified the agency’s position. “We lack the authority to prosecute the matter,” Achimugu stated. “We have referred the case to the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General of the Federation, who are better positioned to determine and communicate the next steps.”
Meanwhile, KWAM1 issued a public apology in a video circulated online on Friday. In his statement, he expressed “unreserved and heartfelt apology” to the Presidency, the Ministry of Aviation, the NCAA, and all Nigerians. He described the incident as “unfortunate” and denied allegations that he was carrying alcohol in a flask, insisting it contained only water for a chronic dehydration condition. “It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols in any way,” he said.
When asked to comment on the singer’s apology, Minister Festus Keyamo stated that the authorities have not yet had the opportunity to deliberate on it. “We have just seen this (apology) on social media like everyone else. We have not had the opportunity to deliberate on it,” he said.
The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media about aviation safety, passenger conduct, and the accountability of public figures. As the matter is now in the hands of Nigeria’s top legal and law enforcement officials, the public awaits their decision on the next course of action.
