In a startling breach of aviation protocol, two prominent Nigerian social media personalities engaged in a physical altercation while boarding a commercial flight, forcing airline staff to intervene and remove both individuals from the aircraft.
Mid-Air Aisle Tussle Between Internet Personalities
The incident occurred on Monday morning aboard United Nigeria Airlines flight UN0523, scheduled to depart from Asaba International Airport. Passengers watched in disbelief as online commentator Matins Otse, known professionally as Very Dark Man (VDM), and comedian Freedom Atsepoyi, who performs as Mr Jollof, exchanged punches in the narrow aircraft aisle.
Mobile phone footage circulating online shows the two influencers locked in a tight clinch during the boarding process, trading blows as fellow travellers reacted with shock. Several passengers courageously stepped forward in an attempt to separate the fighting pair before cabin crew could implement formal de-escalation procedures.
Airline's Immediate Response and Safety Protocol Activation
United Nigeria Airlines spokesman Chibuike Uloka confirmed the confrontation erupted during boarding operations that morning. "In full compliance with global aviation safety protocols, our crew responded immediately and professionally to de-escalate the situation," Uloka stated in an official communication.
The airline's response team ensured both combatants were "de-boarded without delay to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of all other passengers and crew members." The swift action allowed the Airbus A320 to continue its journey to Lagos Murtala Mohammed Airport, departing Asaba at 9:47 am and arriving at 10:33 am local time as scheduled.
Authorities confirmed both individuals remain in custody while investigations into the cause of the altercation continue. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced it will conduct a formal inquiry into the incident.
Pattern of Passenger Misconduct in Nigerian Aviation
This incident represents the latest in a series of passenger behaviour issues affecting Nigerian air travel. Earlier this year, the NCAA temporarily barred popular musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM1) from flying due to alleged misconduct, though the ban was later lifted and he was surprisingly appointed as an aviation ambassador.
In another concerning August incident, a female passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight physically assaulted a flight attendant who had requested she turn off her mobile phone during taxiing. The confrontation became so severe that the pilot returned to the terminal at Lagos's Murtala Muhammed International Airport, and the individual was forcibly removed from the aircraft.
Michael Achimugu, director of public affairs and consumer protection at the NCAA, has issued repeated reminders to travellers about the critical importance of complying with crew instructions for everyone's safety.
The recurring nature of such incidents has raised questions about passenger education and enforcement measures within Nigeria's aviation sector, with authorities facing increasing pressure to implement stronger deterrents against in-flight disruptions.
