Who is Nigerian singer KWAM 1 and why was he denied boarding over a flask? Drama explained

Nigerian singer KWAM 1 was recently involved in a major controversy after he was denied permission to board a flight due to behavioral issues. According to reports, the incident took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport of Abuja, where the singer tried to get onboard a ValueJet Airlines flight to Lagos while carrying a flask containing liquid.

According to Tribune Online, things went south when the security men sought to take a look at the flask, and KWAM 1 was said to have reportedly poured the contents of the bottle on a security officer. He then attempted to block the plane’s departure, which created a significant disruption to airport operations.

The musician has been a dominant force in Nigerian Fuji music for over four decades. This has been excellently depicted in his early works, such as albums which include "Iba" and "Talazo'84", and he has never looked back since. Despite being 68 years old, the singer maintains an active touring and recording schedule and has released over 50 albums throughout his career.

The KWAM music is said to be distinct in that it embraces the traditional Fuji music and also an amalgamation of juju, apala, rock, and hip-hop. The works have elevated K1 as a global ambassador of Nigerian music, and he has also been awarded multiple awards to honor his efforts. These include the “King of Fuji Music”, "City People Lifetime Achievement Award", and being awarded the title of "Mayegun of Yorubaland.”

What's next for KWAM 1?

The incident has quickly gained national attention, and disciplinary actions have already been initiated against the singer. The pilot and operators have also caught a lot of flak for their conduct, which reportedly led to the singer ducking for cover to prevent getting struck by the wings of the airplane.

In the aftermath of the incident, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has imposed a six-month flying ban on KWAM and has suspended the licenses of the pilots involved in the incident. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo also shared his sentiments on the matter through a social media post, where he said:

"Contrary to what the agents of Kwam 1 has said, he CONSTANTLY moved his position on the tarmac to ACTUALLY BLOCK the aircraft from taxiing to take position on the runway for take-off. This is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE behaviour. The issue of whether he was carrying water or alcohol is not even in issue at this point. It is the physical blockage of the aircraft from taxiing that is the reprehensible conduct here which akin to a hostage situation."

He then went on to add:

"I have noted that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has temporarily suspended the license of the Captain and the Pilot pending full investigation. IN THE CIRCUMSTANCE, I HAVE ALSO DIRECTED THE NCAA TO PLACE KWAM 1 on a NO-FLY list pending further and full investigation, just like the Captain and Pilot."

KWAM 1 could also face further disciplinary charges in the coming days, with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) already advocating for the singer's prosecution. A petition has already been sent to the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), and further action about the incident is expected to be taken in the coming days.

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