KWAM 1 Denies Spilling Alcohol On Pilot, Airport Staff

Fuji legend, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, has refuted allegations of misconduct at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, insisting he did not violate any aviation security protocols or assault airport personnel.

This follows an earlier statement by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Wednesday, announcing an investigation into an alleged altercation involving the musician at the airport’s domestic terminal on Tuesday, August 5.

FAAN claimed preliminary findings revealed that KWAM 1, who was scheduled to board a ValueJet flight (VK 201) to Lagos, attempted to carry an unidentified liquid onto the aircraft, contrary to aviation security guidelines.

In a statement, FAAN said:

“In accordance with international aviation security standards, including Nigeria’s National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP) and ICAO Annex 17, liquids exceeding 100ml are not permitted through security unless declared and deemed medically necessary. The passenger was advised but refused to comply.”

The agency further alleged that the substance—later said to be alcohol—was spilled on an airline security officer and that the musician resisted both the officer and the Flight Captain, eventually being escorted away by Aviation Security (AVSEC) officials.

However, in a detailed rebuttal issued through his media aide, Kunle Rasheed, KWAM 1 described the account as “exaggerated and misleading,” maintaining that the content of the flask was plain water, not alcohol.

“At no point did K1 act in a manner that endangered lives or breached safety regulations,” the statement read. “The substance in question was nothing more than drinking water given to him at the lounge. Despite his respectful attempt to explain, the situation was unnecessarily escalated.”

The statement strongly refuted claims that the artiste blocked the aircraft door or disrupted boarding procedures, adding that top executives of ValueJet and airport officials later reached out to apologise and offered to convey him to Lagos via a private jet — an offer he reportedly declined.

“If K1 had behaved improperly, the Head of Security and airline management would not have intervened in such a conciliatory manner,” the statement continued. “A few eyewitnesses among passengers even urged him to stay calm, recognising he was under undue pressure.”

The statement further noted that the pilot involved in the incident has since had her licence suspended, alleging that she may be attempting to deflect blame by misrepresenting the facts.

“It is no surprise she may attempt to cover herself. We urge the public and media to avoid sensationalism and base conclusions on facts, not assumptions,” the statement added.

KWAM 1 reiterated his commitment to the rule of law and affirmed his full cooperation with relevant authorities as the matter progresses.