Award-winning Nigerian singer and songwriter Simisola Kosoko, professionally known as Simi, has demanded disciplinary action against airport personnel involved in filming and circulating unedited footage of passenger Comfort Emmanson’s controversial removal from an Ibom Air flight. The ‘Duduke’ crooner’s intervention has added a new dimension to the ongoing aviation ethics debate in Nigeria.
The August 10 incident at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, captured in viral videos, showed Emmanson being restrained by crew members after allegedly refusing to switch off her phone during the Uyo-to-Lagos flight’s pre-takeoff procedures. While much attention focused on the passenger’s conduct, Simi highlighted the privacy violation in the footage that included moments of indecent exposure.
In a pointed Instagram statement, the multiple-award-winning artist questioned:
”Why was this woman’s private moment left unedited for millions to see? Both actions in this drama deserve consequences – the passenger’s misconduct and the staff’s unethical filming.”
Her comments have sparked nationwide discussions about balancing aviation security with passenger dignity.
Related: AON Slams Lifetime Ban on Passenger Over Assault on Ibom Air
This marks the second high-profile aviation misconduct case in recent weeks, following the six-month flight ban imposed on Fuji music star KWAM1 for similar violations at Abuja airport. Aviation security expert Captain Dele Ore weighed in: “While safety protocols are non-negotiable, professionals must exercise discretion in handling sensitive situations. The camera should be a last resort, not a first response.”
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) maintains its stance on strict compliance with flight regulations but has yet to address the privacy concerns raised. Industry watchers note this incident exposes gaps in Nigeria’s aviation staff training regarding digital ethics and crisis management.
As investigations continue, Simi’s call for accountability resonates with growing concerns about digital privacy rights in an era of instant viral content. The ‘Joromi’ hitmaker’s intervention has been praised by human rights advocates who argue that enforcement procedures should never compromise fundamental dignity.
