Peter Obi Condemns Double Standards in Ibom Air Passenger Case, Calls for Equal Justice
Peter Obi condemns double standards in justice after Ibom Air passenger incident sparks nationwide outrage.
He urges fair, consistent legal processes, criticising alleged dehumanising treatment and selective enforcement by authorities.
Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has weighed in on the controversial incident involving Miss Comfort Emmanson, a female passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight, describing the case as a stark example of Nigeria’s double standards and the lack of civility among some security operatives.
In a statement on Monday, Obi extended an apology to the Ibom Air crew allegedly assaulted by Miss Emmanson, emphasizing that society must continue to uphold good conduct as a hallmark of decency and success.
However, he condemned what he termed the “dehumanizing treatment” reportedly inflicted on the passenger. According to him, allegations that she was publicly stripped before being hastily arraigned and remanded in custody amount to “the height of rascality and abuse” by the agencies involved.
The former Anambra State governor expressed deep concern over what he sees as a glaring disparity in the administration of justice. He noted that while Miss Emmanson faced swift legal action, another individual who recently disrupted a flight and endangered passengers’ safety has not faced prosecution, with some government officials even advocating for his pardon.
“This case is not just about one young woman, it is about the double standards that poison our justice system,” Obi said. “Justice in Nigeria must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence or access to government officials.”
He called on the Minister of Aviation and other relevant authorities to provide clear explanations for the contrasting responses to the two incidents, insisting that justice must be fair, impartial, and consistent.
Obi concluded by urging Nigerians to push for a justice system where the rule of law is upheld without bias, reiterating his long-held belief that “a new Nigeria is possible.”
