…FAAN confirms unruliness of passenger as ValueJet removes crew from active duty
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the licences of two Valuejet pilots, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co- pilot, First officer Ivan Oloba with immediate effect over safety breach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International airport Abuja (Domestic Terminal).
The NCAA spokesperson, Mr. Michael Achimigu,in a statement confirmed that it received reports concerning a serious breach of aviation safety protocols by a ValueJet pilot at the airport on Tuesday.
According to him, preliminary information indicates that the pilot in question commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.
He added that , ‘this reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.
“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness. Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co- pilot, First officer Ivan Oloba with immediate effect. This suspension will remain in place pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident. “, the Authority said.
The Authorty reaffirmed all stakeholders of its commitment to safety.
Meanwhile, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed that the incident which led to the suspension of the pilots involved a notable Nigerian musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (also known as K1 De Ultimate), and a pilot of ValueJet Airlines.
According to FAAN, preliminary investigations confirmed that the passenger was scheduled to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValueJet Airlines (Flight VK 201). During boarding, the passenger attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the Flight Captain.
In accordance with international aviation security standards—specifically, Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and ICAO Annex 17—liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted through security screening unless medically necessary and properly declared, hence the passenger was informed of this regulation but reportedly declined to comply.
FAAN’s spokesperson, Obiageli Orah explained that as boarding continued, an airline security officer asked the passenger to step aside for further clarification. The passenger allegedly refused and spilled the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol.
“The Flight Captain intervened but faced similar resistance. After confirming that boarding was complete, she instructed the closure of the aircraft door..At this juncture, the passenger moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to leave the area despite repeated requests. He was ultimately escorted away by AVSEC crime unit for further investigation, after which he was released.
“FAAN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel. The Authority will not tolerate any actions that compromise operational integrity or undermine aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved.This matter remains under thorough investigation, and all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law.
“FAAN is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and regulatory compliance across all Nigerian airports.”, the Authority said.
Also, ValueJet in a statement said it acknowledged the seriousness of this incident and are fully cooperating with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in their ongoing investigation, adding that the crew involved were removed immediately from active duty, pending the outcome of a thorough internal review and investigation that has commenced to understand the root cause and prevent any recurrence.
“At ValueJet, safety is not negotiable. We operate under strict adherence to regulatory procedures and international safety standards, and we remain committed to accountability and improvement across all levels of our operations. We appreciate the NCAA’s swift response and will continue to work closely with the Authority to uphold the integrity of Nigerian aviation sector.”, it said.
