Says “I am not proud of what I have done”
By Ajewole Joshua |ABNews|
Abuja, Nigeria – August 8, 2025 – Popular Fuji musician King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, widely known as K1 De Ultimate, has issued a heartfelt public apology following a controversial incident at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, that has drawn the attention of aviation authorities and sparked nationwide debate.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, involved K1 allegedly breaching airport safety protocols while attempting to board a ValueJet flight to Lagos. Reports from aviation sources claim the Fuji icon insisted on carrying a flask containing more than the permissible 100 ml of liquid on board, despite being cautioned by Aviation Security (AVSEC) personnel and the flight captain.
Eyewitnesses allege that after a heated exchange, K1 poured the contents—reportedly alcohol—on a security officer before walking onto the tarmac and obstructing the aircraft from taxiing. The development prompted the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to suspend the flight’s pilot and co-pilot for safety breaches, while the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, placed the musician on a no-fly list, warning airlines against transporting him.
K1’s Statement and Public Apology
In a lengthy statement released on Thursday, K1 acknowledged the uproar caused by the incident, describing it as “slipping on life’s banana peel of momentary vulnerability.”
“I am not proud of what I have done. I am sorry to Nigerians and especially our youthful population, as this conduct does not represent acceptable role-modelling. I am also sorry to FAAN and the security personnel who bore the brunt of my indiscretion,” he said.
While maintaining that the flask contained only water and not alcohol, K1 expressed gratitude to his fans for their support but urged them to channel their energy towards promoting respect for institutions and public accountability. He also pledged to cooperate fully with relevant authorities in addressing the matter.
“I shall submit myself to relevant authorities and cooperate with prescribed imperatives that repair this unintended but avoidable lapse,” he added.
Authorities Push for Prosecution
The NCAA has formally petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police to investigate and prosecute K1 under the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023. Officials say the incident represents a serious breach of aviation safety rules that must be addressed to deter similar behaviour in the future.
Meanwhile, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing established airport security protocols without fear or favour, stressing that celebrity status does not exempt anyone from compliance.
Public Reaction
The incident has generated a wave of reactions on social media, with some Nigerians condemning the musician’s alleged conduct, while others have commended him for taking responsibility and offering an apology. Industry analysts say the case highlights the need for increased awareness about air travel regulations and the consequences of violating them.
As investigations continue, the outcome of the legal process could set a precedent for how public figures are held accountable for misconduct in sensitive national facilities.
