Ibom Air has denied responsibility for the widely circulated video showing a passenger being stripped naked while being removed from an aircraft.
The denial follows widespread public outrage over the development.
The Group Manager, Marketing and Communications at Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienette, addressed the controversy during an interview with TVC News on Monday, stating that although the video was recorded onboard, it was not filmed or shared by the airline’s staff.
“The video was recorded on the plane, but there were several people on board who were not Ibom Air employees. Anyone could have taken it,” she said.
“I can tell you categorically that Ibom Air did not release the video. We do not condone such indecent exposure, and it is unfortunate that the video has gone viral.”
The incident occurred on August 10 after the passenger, Comfort Emmanson allegedly refused to switch off her electronic device in violation of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) safety rules requiring all devices to be turned off during flight.
Essienette explained that the pilot-in-command was forced to call security when the passenger refused to disembark, prompting the crew to restrain her.
“Our crew had to restrain her to ensure security could escort her off the plane,” she said.
The viral footage has sparked public outrage, with many Nigerians condemning the passenger’s treatment as degrading and humiliating. The situation has ignited wider debate about passenger rights, airline conduct, and aviation security in the country.
Despite the backlash, Essienette defended Ibom Air’s stance, reaffirming the company’s dedication to customer service and operational safety.
“Ibom Air values our customers and prides itself on reliability and excellent service. We remain committed to these principles,” she said.
She urged passengers to comply with aviation safety regulations, noting that “most people obey the rule to switch off devices. The airline environment is controlled, and safety must come first.”
Ibom Air has not yet stated whether it will investigate the source of the leaked video or take action against those responsible.