The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has intensified criticism over the recent airport incident involving Fuji music icon King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, describing his actions as “reckless” and tantamount to “terrorism.”
The party has called for the musician to be prosecuted under Nigeria’s anti-terrorism laws.
In a statement on Thursday via X, ADC’s spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, commended Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo for swiftly labeling the episode a “hostage situation,” but voiced concerns over potential political interference and unequal application of the law.
“A hostage situation is an act of terrorism,” Abdullahi said. “What do Nigeria’s laws say about terrorist acts, and will they be enforced in this case?”
The remarks referenced the August 5 incident at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, where KWAM 1 allegedly defied flight safety protocols, attempted to board with a prohibited flask, spilled its contents on security personnel, and obstructed the aircraft’s movement — actions that reportedly endangered passengers.
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has already imposed a six-month flight ban on the musician, while the aviation minister has ordered his inclusion on a national no-fly list. However, the ADC insists these measures are insufficient.
“Adding him to a no-fly list is only a starting point — it must not end there,” Abdullahi stressed.
The party also highlighted KWAM 1’s perceived political ties, noting his role as a favored performer for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“If it were an ordinary citizen, such a person would likely have been arrested immediately and charged,” the spokesperson said.
Abdullahi warned that the incident could damage Nigeria’s aviation image, potentially eroding the confidence of international travelers.
“Even if our airports were plated in gold, it would mean nothing if people believe that anyone can obstruct an aircraft and put lives at risk,” he said. “If this had happened in Europe or America, the consequences would have been severe. What he did was the height of recklessness — it is an act of terrorism and should be treated as such.”
The statement concluded with a warning against shielding KWAM 1 due to his celebrity status or political connections: “You cannot give him a light punishment simply because he sings for the President.”
