The incident has continued to generate debates in Nigeria.
By EZEKIEL OBI, Abuja-
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly denounced Ibom Air’s handling of passenger Ms. Comfort Emmanson, labeling it as “reckless, unlawful, and a grave violation of her right to dignity” following an incident on August 10, 2025.
In a statement, NBA President Afam Osigwe (SAN) and General Secretary Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara condemned the “dehumanizing” manner in which Emmanson was forcibly removed from an Ibom Air flight.
NATIONAL ACCORD reports that Video evidence revealed an airline hostess obstructing Emmanson’s exit, an act the NBA described as potentially constituting “false imprisonment and provocation,” risking further escalation.
The NBA expressed outrage over allegations that Emmanson was publicly stripped, humiliated, filmed, and had the footage circulated online. The association called this a “serious invasion of privacy” and a criminal act. “Even if reporting was necessary, the footage should have been edited to avoid exposing her nudity,” the NBA stated, demanding that those responsible for capturing and sharing the unedited video be prosecuted.
The association also criticized Ibom Air’s lifetime ban on Emmanson as “heavy-handed” and “legally indefensible,” arguing that only regulatory authorities, not private airlines, have the power to restrict flying privileges. The NBA deemed the ban a violation of fair hearing principles.
Calling for accountability, the NBA urged Ibom Air to lift the ban and issue a public apology. It also pressed the Minister for Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and security agencies to investigate thoroughly and sanction those responsible. The association vowed to provide Emmanson with pro bono legal support to ensure her rights are protected and to seek justice for the violations she endured.
