President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu and aviation authorities to forgive Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also called K1 De Ultimate, over his recent airport misconduct.
In a statement shared on social media late Sunday, MC Oluomo described K1 as “a prodigal son” who has acknowledged his mistakes, expressed sincere remorse and pledged to make amends following the fracas that led to sanctions by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
“I humbly and fervently appeal to you to exercise mercy and forgiveness towards Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1). Like a prodigal son, K1 has acknowledged his mistakes, is sincerely apologetic, and is willing to make amends,” he wrote.
He also called on NCAA boss Capt Chris Najomo and minister of aviation Festus Keyamo to “temper justice with mercy by lifting the ban imposed on K1 and the pilot, Oluranti Ogoyi, following the incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport’s local wing in Abuja.”
“On behalf of K1, I extend unreserved and heartfelt apologies to the CEO of Value Jet, Mr Kunle Soname, the staff, the pilot, and the general public. We acknowledge K1’s wrongdoing and deeply appreciate his 50-year contributions to Nigeria’s growth and the promotion of Yoruba culture worldwide,” MC Oluomo added.
The ban followed an incident on August 5, at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport when K1 was denied boarding a ValueJet flight to Lagos after being found with a flask containing liquid.
Airline staff suspected it was alcohol, which is prohibited onboard, but K1 allegedly refused inspection, poured the contents on a crew member and security personnel and blocked the aircraft’s taxiing path.
Minister of aviation Festus Keyamo condemned the act and directed that K1 be placed on a six-month no-fly list. The NCAA also suspended the licenses of the pilots involved, including Capt Oluranti Ogoyi.
On August 8, K1 issued a public apology, describing the incident as “unfortunate” and clarifying that the flask contained only water. He said he suffers from chronic dehydration and must stay hydrated at all times.
The 68-year-old apologised to the Presidency, Ministry of Aviation, FAAN, NCAA, ValueJet, airport officials, passengers and the public, saying it was never his intention to violate aviation rules or cause disruption.
