On August 5, 2025, Fuji music legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, was involved in a serious incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, during boarding for a ValueJet flight to Lagos. KWAM 1 attempted to board the flight carrying a flask with an unidentified liquid, which airport security suspected to be alcohol in violation of Nigerian aviation security regulations prohibiting liquids over 100 ml without proper declaration.
Despite repeated warnings, KWAM 1 refused to surrender the flask and reportedly spilled its contents on security personnel. When boarding was completed and the aircraft was about to taxi, KWAM 1 moved to block the ValueJet aircraft from taking off by physically standing in front of it, causing a significant disruption. The situation escalated as the flight captain attempted to manage the event; however, the pilot was later suspended for operating the plane while KWAM 1 was obstructing its path.
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo described KWAM 1’s conduct as a “temporary loss of sanity and control” and condemned the physical blockage of the aircraft akin to a hostage situation. Consequently, KWAM 1 has been blacklisted and put on a no-fly list pending full investigation. The Minister also warned airlines that any that attempt to fly KWAM 1 risk losing their operating licenses.
KWAM 1’s camp disputed the narrative, insisting the substance was water given at the airport lounge, accusing authorities of exaggerating the incident, and claiming the musician always respects aviation protocols. Despite this, videos emerged showing KWAM 1 blocking the taxiing aircraft.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) are conducting thorough investigations, having suspended the pilot and crew involved. The incident remains under review with possible legal consequences for KWAM 1 as well.
This development highlights serious concerns about adherence to aviation security protocols and the handling of unruly passenger behavior in Nigeria.