By Frank Ulom
ABUJA (CONVERSEER) – The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned the treatment of Comfort Bob Emmanson by Ibom Air, describing it as reckless, unlawful, and a violation of her fundamental rights.
In a statement jointly signed by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), and General Secretary, Dr Mobolaji Ojibara, the NBA on Tuesday criticised the events of 10 August 2025 when Emmanson was forcibly removed from an Ibom Air flight, stripped of her clothing in public, and humiliated in an incident filmed and circulated online.
According to the association, such conduct amounted to a degrading and dehumanising act, breaching her right to dignity, privacy, and fair treatment. “No person, regardless of the circumstances, should be treated in such a manner,” the statement read.
The NBA also questioned the airline’s handling of the situation, noting that additional footage had emerged showing a flight attendant allegedly preventing Emmanson from leaving the aircraft — an act that could amount to false imprisonment and possible provocation. The body called for an independent investigation before any disciplinary measures are taken.
It further faulted the lifetime flight ban imposed on Emmanson by Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), stating that it was imposed without giving her a fair hearing.
“The power to suspend or restrict a passenger’s right to fly rests with the appropriate statutory regulator, not private associations or airline operators acting unilaterally,” the NBA maintained.
The association also condemned the unedited online circulation of footage showing Emmanson’s nudity, describing it as a criminal invasion of privacy. It called for the identification and prosecution of those responsible.
The NBA demanded that Ibom Air withdraw the lifetime ban, issue a public apology, and cooperate with an impartial probe.
It urged the Minister for Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and sanction all those found culpable.
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The statement concluded by pledging pro bono legal support to Emmanson to ensure her rights are protected and justice is served.
Background: Passenger Rights in Nigerian Aviation Law
In Nigeria, passenger rights in air travel are primarily protected under the Nigeria Civil Aviation Act 2006 and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs), as enforced by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). These laws set out the standards for safety, security, and customer service, while safeguarding passengers from unfair or degrading treatment.
Key Rights Include:
- Right to Dignity and Respect: Airlines and their staff must treat passengers respectfully, without harassment, humiliation, or discrimination.
- Right to Safety: Passengers are entitled to safe travel conditions and proper handling in the event of disputes or emergencies.
- Right to Privacy: Airlines are prohibited from sharing personal data, images, or recordings without consent, except as required by law.
- Right to Information and Fair Hearing: Before any sanction, such as suspension or refusal of service, passengers must be given a clear explanation of the reasons and an opportunity to respond.
- Right to Compensation: Passengers may claim compensation for loss, damage, delay, or unlawful treatment during flights, as provided under NCAA consumer protection regulations.
Regulatory Authority:
Only the NCAA has the statutory authority to suspend, restrict, or blacklist passengers from flying within Nigeria. Airline operators or associations acting independently may be in breach of aviation law if they impose bans without NCAA approval.
Complaints and Redress:
Passengers who feel their rights have been violated can lodge complaints directly with the NCAA’s Consumer Protection Department. If unresolved, they can pursue legal redress through the courts, often with the support of consumer rights or legal advocacy bodies.
