Pilots Union Urges NCAA to Lift Suspension on ValueJet Crew Over Abuja Airport Incident
NAAPE has urged the NCAA to lift suspensions on ValueJet pilots after KWAM 1 incident.
The union also criticized the singer’s behavior and called for equal accountability in the matter.
The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has called on the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to reverse the suspension of ValueJet pilot Capt. Oluranti Ogoyi and her first officer following the August 5 security breach at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, involving Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1.
In a statement on Saturday, NAAPE’s president, Galadima Abednego, requested a fair and transparent investigation into the tarmac incident, which delayed a Lagos-bound flight.
Although admitting that Capt. Ogoyi could have exercised more discretion, Abednego criticized KWAM 1’s conduct, describing it as disrespectful and disruptive. He maintained that the musician should also face consequences for his actions.
“Aviation is built on safety and security, and we value both above all else,” Abednego said, commending the aviation minister and NCAA boss for their prompt response to the matter.
He appealed to the NCAA to restore the licenses of the suspended pilots, noting that they were seasoned professionals who reacted under “serious provocation” from the passenger. NAAPE also urged ValueJet to support the affected crew.
The union further called on travelers to show cooperation and restraint when dealing with airport and airline staff, stressing that passenger behavior plays a key role in flight safety.
KWAM 1, who was initially placed on a no-fly list, later issued a public statement on Friday expressing regret over the incident.
