The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has cleared the air on the incident that happened at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, when ValueJet pilots reportedly breached safety protocols by attempting to depart without concluding the pre-departure protocols.

Daily Trust reports that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had on Tuesday night announced the suspension of two pilots working with a domestic carrier, ValueJet, for what it described as a serious breach of aviation safety protocols at the airport.

NCAA’s Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, in a statement issued late Tuesday, confirmed the development, saying the NCAA was notified of the violation by the pilots.

A 23-second video posted on the X page (formerly Twitter) of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) showed that the aircraft involved was a CRJ-900ER with registration 5N-BXS.

The aircraft was seen taxiing from its bay with some ground staff maintaining close proximity to the plane indicating that it is not yet cleared to depart. Some of them were seen running away from the aircraft as the pilots taxied with speed from the apron.

Also the airline had issued a statement confirming the crew’s mistake and said the two pilots had been withdrawn from its service.

But the airport operator in a statement explaining the incident said it involved a notable Nigerian musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (also known as K1 De Ultimate), and a pilot of ValueJet Airlines.

According to FAAN, preliminary investigations confirmed that the passenger was scheduled to board the morning flight to Lagos operated by ValueJet Airlines (Flight VK 201).

During boarding, the passenger attempted to carry an unidentified liquid substance on board despite repeated warnings from Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the Flight Captain, FAAN explained.

FAAN stated that in accordance with international aviation security standards—specifically, Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and ICAO Annex 17—liquids exceeding 100ml “are not permitted through security screening unless medically necessary and properly declared.”

It said the passenger was informed of this regulation but reportedly declined to comply.

While the boarding continued, an airline security officer was said to have asked the musician to step aside for further clarification.

However, the passenger allegedly refused and spilled the contents of the flask on the officer, which turned out to be alcohol.

The statement added, “The Flight Captain intervened but faced similar resistance. After confirming that boarding was complete, she instructed the closure of the aircraft door.

“At this juncture, the passenger moved to the front of the aircraft and refused to leave the area despite repeated requests. He was ultimately escorted away by AVSEC crime unit for further investigation, after which he was released.

“FAAN reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all passengers, crew, and airport personnel. The Authority will not tolerate any actions that compromise operational integrity or undermine aviation safety standards, regardless of the individuals involved.

“This matter remains under thorough investigation, and all parties found culpable will be held accountable according to the law.” Daily Trust)