FG launches probe into physical fight between social media influencers on United Nigeria Airlines flight

The federal government has initiated an investigation into a physical altercation aboard a United Nigeria Airlines flight involving social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), and comedian Freedom Atsepoyi, also called Mr Jollof.

The incident, which occurred on Monday morning, was captured in a viral video showing the duo exchanging blows while onboard a flight traveling from Asaba, the Delta State capital, to Lagos.

Passengers reportedly struggled to intervene, causing a significant disruption to the flight.

According to Thisday sources, both men were promptly offloaded from the aircraft and handed over to airport security for further interrogation.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirmed it would pursue sanctions against the pair for their unruly conduct.

Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, said in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that such behavior would not be tolerated on any flight.

“The airline should report the incident to the NCAA, after which my department will forward it for legal advice and appropriate action,” Achimugu stated.

“There is no tolerance for unruly behaviour aboard an aircraft. Both individuals will face the full strength of the law.

”It is particularly concerning given that both are partners in educating millions of followers to avoid such behaviour, ” he added.

He also that the altercation jeopardized the safety of passengers, crew, and the aircraft itself.

“The NCAA has invested significant resources in educating passengers about the dangers of unruly conduct. No excuse can justify this fracas,” Achimugu noted.

The NCAA also confirmed that both VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof were deboarded following the incident.

United Nigeria Airlines released a statement explaining that the confrontation occurred during boarding at Asaba Airport.

The airline described the altercation as a disruption of boarding procedures, in which both passengers ignored crew entreaties and engaged in physical combat.

“In full compliance with global aviation safety protocols, our crew responded immediately and professionally to de-escalate the situation,” said Chibuike Uloka, Public Relations Officer of United Nigeria Airlines.

“Both passengers were deboarded without delay to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of all other passengers and crew members.

”They were subsequently handed over to airport security for further investigation.”

The airline stressed its commitment to passenger safety and zero tolerance for any conduct that threatens flight security or wellbeing.

“After all standard procedures were completed, the flight departed safely while the passengers involved in the altercation remained with the authorities.

”We remain firmly committed to providing a safe, respectful, and secure travel experience across our network,” Uloka added.

The federal government, through the NCAA, continues to investigate the matter and is awaiting legal guidance on appropriate sanctions.