Follow Us on Google
By Benson Michael
Lagos-based Technician Surveyor, Real Estate Investor, Security Expert and public affairs advocate, Prince Ambassador (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla, has thrown his weight behind the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) condemnation of the alleged inhumane and degrading treatment of Ms. Comfort Emmanson aboard an Ibom Air flight on August 10, 2025.
Ewenla described details emerging from the incident — including Emmanson’s forcible removal from the aircraft, public humiliation, stripping of clothing, and the recording and circulation of indecent footage — as “deeply troubling” and a violation of her fundamental human rights as guaranteed under Section 34(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
“No Nigerian, regardless of circumstances, should be subjected to such treatment in a democratic society governed by the rule of law,” Ewenla said.
He also faulted Ibom Air’s decision to impose a lifetime flight ban on Emmanson and extend it to other Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) members, describing the move as procedurally flawed, morally indefensible, and legally questionable.
“The power to impose such sanctions lies with statutory regulatory authorities, not with private entities acting unilaterally,” he stressed.
Ewenla expressed concern over what he called “glaring double standards” in law enforcement, noting that while Ms. Emmanson remains in custody at Kirikiri Correctional Centre, some prominent Nigerians accused of more serious misconduct, including musician Mr. Wasiu Ayinde, continue to move freely without arrest or prosecution.
“Justice cannot be selective; the law must be applied equally to all citizens, irrespective of status, influence, or connections,” he said.
Commending the NBA for providing pro bono legal support to Ms. Emmanson and demanding an independent investigation, Ewenla pledged his personal financial support to the cause — a commitment he has also made public on his InsideOyo platform and official Facebook page.
He emphasised that the matter transcends the case of one woman, saying it is about safeguarding the dignity, rights, and freedoms of all Nigerians, holding institutions accountable, and reinforcing the principle that no one is above the law.
Ewenla called on the Minister for Aviation, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and relevant security agencies to:
Withdraw the lifetime flight ban imposed on Ms. Emmanson.
Sanction those responsible for her alleged physical and emotional abuse.
Prosecute individuals involved in the unlawful recording and circulation of indecent footage.
Enforce strict compliance with humane passenger handling protocols in the aviation industry.
“We must remember that justice delayed is justice denied, and in this matter, justice must not only be done but be seen to be done,” he declared.
