The Federal Government has explained its decision to appoint Fuji musician, Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocols.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement on Wednesday, said the move aligns with global practice where repentant offenders are engaged to educate others against misconduct. He described the role as voluntary and similar to community service.
“For further clarification, it is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to community service. It is not paid for, and it is voluntary service,” Keyamo stated.
He added that contrary to public perception, the role of “Ambassador” in this context does not come with perks or an official position. “It is not the first time it is happening in Nigeria and it will not be the last. Examples abound of such roles given to repentant persons by previous governments in Nigeria,” he said.
The minister also disclosed that while aviation agencies are considering using KWAM 1 for the role, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) is exploring the option of appointing Ms. Comfort Emmanson as an ambassador for good passenger conduct. Emmanson, who recently showed remorse for her actions, was released from prison custody on Wednesday following Keyamo’s earlier intervention.
“It is left for the AON to work out those details since she has been actually released from prison custody today based on my earlier statement. Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all,” he added.
The development follows the resolution of KWAM 1’s recent altercation with ValueJet staff, which led to a six-month flight ban. Keyamo had earlier in the day announced that the ban had been reduced to one month.
