Captain Ranti’s First-Person Account:
As the pilot of Flight VK201 from Abuja to Lagos on the morning of August 5, 2025, it is my duty to ensure the safety of everyone on board—crew, passengers, and the aircraft itself. But what happened that morning is something no professional should ever be subjected to.
Boarding began promptly at 8:10 AM. Shortly after, Mr. Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (KWAM 1) approached the aircraft carrying a gold flask. In line with standard aviation protocol, ground staff requested to inspect the flask. To our surprise, he refused and became defensive, reportedly saying, “Do you know who I am? You have no right to tell me to open my flask.”
As he reached the aircraft stairs, security attempted to reinforce the request, but the situation escalated. I had to step out of the cockpit to de-escalate the tension. What happened next was unacceptable: Mr. Ayinde abruptly opened the flask and poured its contents on me, on the security staff, and some innocent passengers nearby.
The liquid, suspected to be alcoholic, posed a direct violation of onboard safety regulations. Airport security immediately intervened. Based on his erratic behavior and the safety risk he posed, I made the decision, supported by security personnel, to deny him boarding.
Even after the aircraft doors were closed, he remained near the plane, blocking movement on the tarmac. I had to inform passengers about the delay until he was escorted away. We eventually departed at 8:50 AM—40 minutes behind schedule.
His actions not only disrupted operations but endangered lives. I speak out not for attention, but to defend the integrity of aviation safety and the duty we owe to everyone who boards our flights.
— *Captain Ranti*, Pilot, Flight VK201, ValueJet.
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