Abuja, Nigeria – In a dramatic twist to two of the most talked-about incidents in Nigeria’s aviation sector this year, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), has ordered the withdrawal of all criminal complaints filed against Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) and airline passenger Comfort Emmanson.

The minister made the announcement on Wednesday, confirming that the decision was taken on compassionate grounds after both parties expressed remorse for their actions.

KWAM 1 had been at the centre of controversy after blocking a ValueJet aircraft on the Abuja airport tarmac on August 5, leading to threats of prosecution and his placement on a no-fly list. Comfort Emmanson, on the other hand, was involved in an in-flight altercation aboard Ibom Air, which allegedly included assaulting a crew member and attempting to misuse safety equipment. She was banned for life by airlines and remanded in Kirikiri Prison.

Keyamo stated that KWAM 1’s no-fly sanction will now last only one month, after which normal flight privileges will be restored. Comfort’s lifetime ban has been lifted, her charges dropped, and arrangements are being made for her release from custody.

As part of corrective measures, the minister also directed aviation agencies and airline operators to undergo immediate security protocol and passenger management retraining next week.

“We must enforce our laws, but we must also show compassion when people take responsibility for their actions,” Keyamo said, assuring Nigerians that safety will not be compromised.

The move has sparked mixed reactions from the public, with some praising the minister’s leniency, while others accuse the government of double standards in handling high-profile cases