Passengers at Enugu Airport witnessed a dramatic scene after officials forcefully deplaned a traveler from an aircraft, sparking outrage and widespread online reactions. The incident, which disrupted boarding processes and delayed flights, occurred ahead of a scheduled performance by Fuji music icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.
Eyewitnesses said the drama unfolded when airport security personnel entered the cabin to remove a passenger whose identity was not immediately disclosed. The reason behind the forced removal remains unclear, but accounts suggest the situation stemmed from a disagreement between the passenger and crew members before takeoff.
Videos shared on social media showed officials dragging the passenger out of the aircraft while others on board looked on in shock. The footage quickly went viral, drawing criticism of the handling of the situation, with many Nigerians describing the act as “unprofessional” and “embarrassing.”
The incident reportedly caused delays that affected travel schedules, including that of KWAM 1, who was expected to perform later in the day. Some fans expressed frustration over the delay, while others condemned the airport authorities for failing to de-escalate the matter without resorting to force.
Reactions online have been divided, with some arguing that security officials were right to enforce discipline and ensure flight safety, while others insisted that the matter could have been resolved through dialogue. The video has since attracted thousands of comments across social media platforms, with calls for the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to issue a statement clarifying what led to the passenger’s removal.
A few commentators also linked the incident to wider concerns about Nigeria’s aviation sector, stressing that airline operators and airport officials must improve customer service and adopt international best practices when dealing with passengers.
As at press time, neither the airline involved nor FAAN had released an official statement addressing the controversy. The absence of a clear explanation has further fueled public speculation, leaving many Nigerians demanding accountability over the dramatic episode.
