Renowned Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, has pushed back against allegations surrounding an incident at the Abuja airport, as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has launched a probe into the matter.
On Wednesday, FAAN announced that it had launched an investigation into an incident involving Ayinde Marshal concerning an alleged violation of airport security rules at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. FAAN said the altercation occurred on Monday, August 5, 2025, during boarding procedures for a ValueJet Airlines flight (Flight VK 201) headed to Lagos.
According to a statement signed by Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN, Obiageli Orah, “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 personnel and the flight captain.”
FAAN clarified that the musician attempted to board the aircraft carrying a flask containing liquid, violating aviation security regulations that prohibit liquids exceeding 100ml in hand luggage.
“In accordance with international aviation security standards, specifically, Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme and ICAO Annex 17, liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted through security screening unless medically necessary and properly declared. The passenger was informed of this regulation but reportedly declined to comply,” the statement read.
Tensions reportedly escalated when the musician refused to step aside for further checks. “As the 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,” FAAN added.
The situation intensified when the musician moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to vacate the area despite repeated requests from airline personnel. “He was ultimately escorted away by the AVSEC crime unit for further investigation, after which he was released,” the statement noted.
FAAN condemned the disruption and emphasised that the matter remains under thorough investigation. “FAAN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel. The Authority will not tolerate any action that compromises operational integrity or undermines aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved,” it stated.
The agency assured the public that 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 statement concluded.
KWAM 1 reacts
In a statement issued by the Media Aide to K1 De Ultimate (KWAM 1), Kunle Rasheed, it was stated that the claims of FAAN were misleading.
The statement read, “Our attention has been drawn to reports alleging that King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) displayed unruly conduct while attempting to board a ValueJet flight on August 5, 2025, allegedly causing a breach of aviation protocol. We wish to categorically state that this narrative is not only exaggerated but also misleading.
“At no point did K1 act in a manner that endangered lives or breached safety regulations. The substance in question — which was wrongly sensationalized — was nothing more than plain drinking water, given to him at the airport lounge while he waited to board the aircraft. Despite his respectful effort to clarify this, the situation was unnecessarily escalated.
“Claims that K1 blocked the aircraft or attempted to disrupt operations are completely unfounded. The veteran artiste, who is globally respected and frequently travels both locally and internationally, understands and strictly adheres to aviation protocols.
“If indeed there had been anything inappropriate in his conduct, the Head of Airport Security, officials from relevant agencies such as FAAN and NCAA, as well as the Chairman and Managing Director of the airline, would not have reached out personally to appeal, tender apologies, and even go as far as arranging a private jet to fly him to Lagos — at no cost. Despite persistent persuasion from the airline’s top executives, K1 graciously declined the offer.”
The statement emphasised that K1 was the victim in this incident, stressing, “No one else but him and his personal assistant was directly involved. A few concerned passengers who witnessed the incident firsthand appealed to him to remain calm, recognizing the undue pressure he was under.”
It added that “in light of recent developments, it is important to note that the pilot involved now has her license suspended. Given the circumstances, it is no surprise if she attempts to deflect blame — surely, she must lie to cover herself up.
“We urge the media and the public to avoid sensationalism and allow the truth — not assumptions — to guide their judgment. K1 remains a law-abiding citizen and continues to cooperate fully with all relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is responsibly resolved.”
