Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is defending Comfort Emmanson’s dignity after a disturbing airline incident, calling for justice and fair treatment.
What Happened?
On August 10, 2025, Comfort Emmanson was allegedly physically confronted by Ibom Air crew and airport officials when she resisted switching off her mobile phone before takeoff. What followed was quite shocking; she was forcibly removed, her clothing was torn, and she was left partly exposed in a public scene. The whole event was recorded and is now circulated widely online. Soon after, Ibom Air and the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) imposed a lifetime flight ban on her, even without giving her the chance to explain her side of the story.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) swiftly stepped in with a firm response, insisting the treatment was:
a. Heavy-handed and unlawful, trampling on Emmanson’s right to human dignity and privacy;
b. Degrading and unbefitting of Nigeria’s aviation standards. No one should ever be stripped and humiliated in public, regardless of the situation.
The NBA also raised serious red flags about:
i. The lack of fair hearing as Emmanson was not allowed to respond before the irreversible lifetime ban was enforced.
ii. The act of filming and distributing the footage of a partially naked passenger as a serious privacy violation, possibly criminal.
Flowing from the above, the NBA Is Demanding:
- An immediate withdrawal of the lifetime ban imposed by Ibom Air and AON.
- A public apology to Comfort Emmanson.
- A formal, independent investigation by aviation authorities, including the Ministry of Aviation, NCAA, FAAN, and security agencies.
The NBA went further to offer a Pro bono legal support for Emmanson to uphold her rights.
WHY THIS MATTERS TO ALL OF US
1. Human Dignity Above All
Regardless of any misconduct, everyone must remain respectful of other individuals’ dignity. The NBA’s stance reminds us that rights are universal and inviolable.
2. Due Process Isn’t Optional
Instilling punishments without letting a person explain themselves undermines fairness and public trust. The principle of audi alteram partem (“let the other side be heard”) must be honored.
3. A Check on Authority
This is a classic example of how citizens, and professional associations like the NBA play a critical role in checking the power of private corporations.
4. Privacy Must Be Protected
Airing sensitive footage without consent not only shatters a person’s dignity, it risks criminal violation. Respecting privacy is non-negotiable.
Finally, this isn’t just about one passenger or one flight, it’s a powerful reminder that human rights matter, protections must be enforced, and justice deserves a voice.
If you’re reading this, consider sharing this post to raise awareness, or reach out to aviation authorities calling for better treatment of passengers everywhere.
We all benefit when fairness isn’t optional, it’s a standard which we must uphold.