Comfort Emmanson: NBA Chides Ibom Air, AON

• Promises Free Legal Support For Stripped Passenger

The Nigerian Bar Association has condemned the ‘degrading’ way in which Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria handled Ms. Comfort Emmanson, a passenger who was ‘forcibly removed’ from the plane on Sunday evening.

This was as the association pledged legal support to the passenger who was remanded over an alleged assault on the staff of Ibom Air.

NBA described the airline’s actions, including a lifetime flight ban imposed on Emmanson as “reckless,” “unlawful,” and a violation of her right to dignity.

The NBA also stated that only statutory regulators, not private airlines or associations, have the authority to restrict a passenger’s right to fly.

A statement signed by the NBA president, Afam Osigwe, and General Secretary, Dr Mobolaji Ojibara, on Tuesday, said, “The NBA stands ready to provide Ms. Emmanson with pro bono legal support to ensure her rights are protected and that she obtains redress for the violations suffered.

“We will not remain silent while the fundamental rights of any Nigerian are trampled upon, whether by public authorities, private corporations, or individuals.

“Respect for human dignity and the rule of law must never be compromised, and in this matter, justice must prevail.”

“The NBA demands that Ibom Air immediately withdraw the lifetime ban, issue a public apology to Ms. Emmanson, and cooperate fully with an impartial investigation into this incident. We also call on the Minister for Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and relevant security,” the statement read.

The NBA added that Emmanson was forcibly removed from the aircraft, publicly stripped of her clothing, and humiliated in an incident that was recorded and widely circulated online.

The association called the treatment “degrading” and a breach of her privacy and dignity, falling short of expected standards in the aviation industry.

Olamilekan Adigun

Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.

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