The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, has justified his reason for positioning Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde (KWAM 1) as an airport ambassador.

His directive to the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on engaging with the musician angered several Nigerians, who took to social media to express their dissatisfaction over the biased treatment meted out to another unruly passenger, Ms Comfort Emmason.

An X user @TeegoldTV_1 posted, “Wait, someone who broke the law is going to be an ambassador? What examples are we expecting from such a person?” Another person, @ObitechOfficial, wrote, “KWAM 1 has been made aviation ambassador and Miss COMFORT released without any compensation for all the manhandling meted out on her. Indeed, in Nigeria there are two types of justice, one for the rich and one for the poor.”

Keyamo, in his response, said, “For further clarification, it is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to Community Service. It is not paid for, and it is a voluntary service.

“Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some would assume that once you hear the word ‘Ambassador’, it is a big position that comes with the perquisites of office. No, it is not. It is free. It is not the first time it is happening in Nigeria and it will not be the last . Examples abound of such roles given to repentant persons by previous governments in Nigeria.”

He disclosed that the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) is also considering using Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as their ambassador for good passenger conduct, saying the AON will work out the details.

He disclosed that Ms Emmason was released from prison custody on Wednesday based on his earlier statement.

He stated that whilst the usual suspects can continue to question their decisions on the issue, he expressed the belief that “we have been fair to all.”