NAAPE insists KWAM 1 should face law, seeks reversal of pilots’ suspension
The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has appealed to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to review its sanction against a ValueJet pilot and her assistant.
It would be recalled that Capt. Oluranti Ogoyi and her assistant were suspended following the August 5 security breach at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involving Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.
In a statement signed by NAAPE’s national president, Galadima Abednego, on Saturday, the association called for a transparent and unbiased investigation into the tarmac incident that disrupted a Lagos-bound flight.
While acknowledging that the ValueJet captain could have exercised better discretion, Abednego condemned KWAM 1’s “crude, unruly behaviour and arrogant display,” insisting the musician should be held accountable.
“Aviation rests on two pillars, safety and security, and NAAPE places the highest premium on these principles,” he said, commending the aviation minister and NCAA director-general for their prompt action.
Abednego urged the NCAA to reinstate the licences of the captain and first officer, noting that the incident was triggered by “intense provocation” from KWAM 1, which tested the patience of experienced pilots with unblemished records. He also encouraged ValueJet to continue supporting the affected crew.
NAAPE further appealed to Nigerians, especially air travellers, to cooperate with airport authorities and airline staff, stressing that passenger restraint is vital for safety.
KWAM 1, who initially denied wrongdoing, was placed on a no-fly list by the aviation ministry after the incident. He later posted a statement on Friday expressing regret for his actions.
