By Solomon Asuquo.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned what he described as “double standards” and “selective justice” in the handling of the recent Ibom Air incident involving Miss Comfort Emmanson.
On Sunday, August 10, 2025, a disturbing incident occurred aboard an Ibom Air Uyo–Lagos-bound flight, sparking outrage across Nigeria. A female passenger, identified as Comfort Emmanson, was forcibly dragged out of the aircraft and stripped naked by airline officials.
Viral videos and social media posts allege that Emmanson was accused of violating flight safety rules by failing to switch off her phone during the journey. However, the passenger insists she had set her phone to flight mode. Upon arrival in Lagos, an air hostess reportedly blocked her from disembarking, claiming security operatives had been called to arrest her. The confrontation escalated when Emmanson allegedly slapped the crew member.
In a statement on Monday, August 11, 2025, Obi apologised to the Ibom Air crew allegedly assaulted by Emmanson, urging Nigerians to uphold good conduct as a hallmark of decent living. However, he criticised the “dehumanising” treatment meted out to the young woman, including publicly stripping her before remanding her in custody.
Obi described the action as “unnecessary” and “the height of rascality and abuse” by security agencies, questioning why Emmanson was swiftly charged while another individual who allegedly delayed a flight and endangered hundreds of lives remains free, with some state officials calling for his pardon.
“This case is not just about one young woman, it is about the double standards that poison our justice system,” Obi stated. “Justice in Nigeria must never be about who is poor or powerless versus who has influence or access to government officials.”
The former Anambra governor stressed that Emmanson’s alleged offence “does not compare” to the crimes of politically connected individuals who loot public funds without consequence. He called on the Minister of Aviation and relevant authorities to explain the apparent bias in handling the cases.
“We must end this selective treatment of the poor or less privileged. If justice must be served, it should be served to all, and it must be served fairly,” Obi said, adding that the rule of law must remain the guidepost of democracy.
“A new Nigeria is possible,” he concluded.
