The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police to launch a thorough investigation into the incident involving musician, Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate and domestic airline, ValueJet.

The petition was made shortly after the apex regulatory body placed the musician on a ‘no-fly’ list pending the outcome of all investigations.

In a letter addressed to both the Attorney-General and the Inspector-General of Police, the NCAA called for a comprehensive criminal investigation and the initiation of appropriate prosecution in accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023 supra and all other applicable laws.

The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, in a press statement yesterday, noted that the musician was involved in an incident, which disrupted standard operational procedures and raised concerns over passenger conduct and airline safety protocols.

According to preliminary reports, during a scheduled ValueJet flight VK201, K1 De Ultimate was allegedly involved in actions that violate the Nigeria Civil Aviation regulations.

While full details of the incident are still being compiled, the NCAA emphasised the importance of upholding aviation safety standards and ensuring accountability, regardless of the parties involved.

Furthermore, and in light of the growing concern, the Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, has also issued an advisory to the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), urging the immediate consideration and institution of a No-Fly List for K1 De Ultimate (on any commercial flight), pending the outcome of official investigations.

This advisory is in line with global aviation standards that prioritise the safety of passengers, crew, and airline operations.

The NCAA reiterates its commitment to ensuring that no individual, regardless of their status or public image, undermines the integrity of our aviation industry, as passengers are held to the same standards of behaviour and compliance within Nigeria’s airspace.

The authority said preliminary findings showed the pilot commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.

According to the NCAA, the reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.

The pilots’ suspension was linked to the disorderly conduct of the Fuji musician, who was on board the flight.

Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had directed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to place Wasiu Ayinde Marshall on the no-fly list until investigations were completed.