In recent weeks, Nigerian air travel has witnessed two major security incidents that gained widespread national attention and raised questions about adherence to aviation security.

In one of the incidents, Fuji star Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, was in a confrontation with airline staff and security officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, while attempting to board a flight to Lagos on August 5, 2025. The incident stemmed from the veteran singer being prevented from carrying a liquid content aboard the plane, in line with aviation security rules.

Another incident involved Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who travelled from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to Lagos on August 10, 2025. Her case arose when she allegedly refused to turn off her phone after being instructed to do so by crew members. She was swiftly arrested, arraigned, and remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre, a maximum-security prison in Lagos, over a dubious assault charge that critics described as unwarranted. Incidentally, KWAM 1, who attempted to block an aircraft carrying more than 70 passengers from taxiing on the runway, was neither manhandled nor arrested for a more serious offence. The disparity between her treatment and that of KWAM 1, who got off with only an apology, sparked widespread outrage and accusations of double standards. After much outcry, Ibom Air, the airline at the heart of the controversy, dropped the case against Emmanson and she was released last Wednesday.

Following these episodes, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) called for greater sensitisation of the public on the dangers and consequences of unruly behaviour at airport terminals and onboard aircraft.

The rules guiding passenger conduct at airports are contained in Part 17 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, 2023, which centres on aviation security. BSide has dug into the 60-page document and pulled out the most critical rules to help you get out of potential trouble:

1. No Weapons or Dangerous Items

Passengers are strictly prohibited from carrying weapons, explosives, or other dangerous devices in their hand luggage, checked baggage, or on their person unless officially authorised for transport. Lying about possessing such items is a punishable offence.

2. Respect Airport Boundaries

Airports are divided into public and restricted areas. Entering a restricted zone without permission, whether by ignoring signs or bypassing instructions, counts as trespassing under aviation law. Offenders can be arrested and prosecuted.

3. Don’t Be an “Unruly Passenger”

The regulations make it clear: becoming unruly at the terminal or on board an aircraft is an offence. Unruly behaviour includes:

• Smoking on board or in a non-smoking area of the terminal.

• Using phones or electronic devices on board without the captain’s approval.

• Fighting, shouting, or disorderly conduct.

• Disturbing other passengers.

• Disobeying lawful instructions from crew, check-in staff, or security officers.

• Doing anything that endangers — or could endanger — flight safety.

• Tampering with smoke detectors or other aircraft equipment.

4. What Happens If You Break the Rules?

If you break these regulations, the aircraft commander or airport authority is empowered to act immediately. They may:

• Restrain the passenger if necessary.

• Take steps to protect the safety of the aircraft, terminal, persons, and property.

• Hand the offender over to competent authorities for prosecution.