The Fuji music icon widely recognized as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, Wasiu Ayinde, has denied claims made by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) that he violated boarding procedures at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The dispute began after FAAN alleged that the 68-year-old singer tried to board a ValueJet Airlines flight to Lagos on Monday with an “unidentified liquid substance,” allegedly ignoring instructions from aviation security (AVSEC) personnel and the flight captain.
Authorities also claimed that the artist spilled alcohol on staff members while they attempted to inspect the contents of a flask he was carrying.
On Wednesday, TheCable reported that the singer’s “disorderly conduct” was the reason behind the suspension of two ValueJet pilots.
In response, a statement issued by his media aide, Kunle Rasheed, described the claims as “not only exaggerated but also misleading”.
According to the statement, the liquid in question was “plain drinking water” handed to him in the airport lounge and “not alcohol”.
Ayinde emphasized that he “adhered to protocols” and made efforts to resolve the matter “peacefully,” but it was “unnecessarily escalated”.
The statement continued: “We wish to categorically state that this narrative is not only exaggerated but also misleading.
“At no point did K1 act in a manner that endangered lives or breached safety regulations. The substance in question — which was wrongly sensationalized — was nothing more than plain drinking water, given to him at the airport lounge while he waited to board the aircraft. Despite his respectful effort to clarify this, the situation was unnecessarily escalated.
“Claims that K1 blocked the aircraft or attempted to disrupt operations are completely unfounded. The veteran artiste, who is globally respected and frequently travels both locally and internationally, understands and strictly adheres to aviation protocols.
“If indeed there had been anything inappropriate in his conduct, the Head of Airport Security, officials from relevant agencies such as FAAN and NCAA, as well as the Chairman and Managing Director of the airline, would not have reached out personally to appeal, tender apologies, and even go as far as arranging a private jet to fly him to Lagos — at no cost. Despite persistent persuasion from the airline’s top executives, K1 graciously declined the offer.
“It must also be emphasized that K1 was the victim in this incident. No one else but him and his personal assistant was directly involved. A few concerned passengers who witnessed the incident firsthand appealed to him to remain calm, recognizing the undue pressure he was under.”
The statement went on to criticize the suspended pilot, accusing her of shifting blame and endangering passengers.
“In light of recent developments, it is important to note that the pilot involved now has her license suspended. Given the circumstances, it is no surprise if she attempts to deflect blame — surely, she must lie to cover herself up,” it added.
“More concerning, however, is that the pilot’s hasty and irrational decision did not only misrepresent the situation but also directly endangered the lives of K1 and those who were peacefully trying to resolve the issue. Such conduct, especially from someone entrusted with the responsibility of safely operating an aircraft, is deeply troubling and falls far below professional standards.”
Kwam 1 concluded by urging both the media and the public to “avoid sensationalism” and rely on verified facts rather than speculation.
He reaffirmed his innocence and assured of his full cooperation with authorities to ensure a proper resolution.
“We urge the media and the public to avoid sensationalism and allow the truth — not assumptions — to guide their judgment,” the statement added.
“K1 remains a law-abiding citizen and continues to cooperate fully with all relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is responsibly resolved.”