Nigerian music star Simisola Ogunleye, popularly known as Simi, has called for disciplinary action against the airport staff who recorded and shared the viral video of a passenger, Comfort Emmanson.
Emmanson was captured on camera being forcefully removed from an aircraft at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.
Taking to her social media pages, Simi who is married to fellow artist Adekunle Gold questioned why the footage exposing the woman’s indecent state was posted online without being blurred or edited. She stressed that such actions warrant accountability and punishment, highlighting concerns over professionalism and privacy breaches.
“So let’s assume the lady acted out of order. Someone filmed her being dragged off the plane, exposed, and still decided to post the unedited video online for millions to see,” Simi wrote.
While much of the public reaction has focused on Emmanson’s alleged unruly conduct, Simi raised questions about the ethics of sharing intimate footage without consent. She insisted that those responsible for posting the raw video should face sanctions, describing the act as unnecessary and harmful.
“I want to know who posted that video and why no one is holding them accountable. If she will face the law, the person who broadcast her half-naked image to millions when fewer than ten people actually witnessed it in person should also be punished,” she added.
The incident occurred on Sunday, August 10, after Emmanson allegedly refused to switch off her phone before takeoff from Uyo to Lagos, in violation of aviation safety rules.
According to Ibom Air, her refusal escalated into a confrontation upon arrival in Lagos, during which she allegedly assaulted staff. She was subsequently handed over to the Nigerian Police for further investigation.
However, footage recorded by a bystander showed Emmanson being physically removed from the plane, during which she was indecently exposed to the public.
Ibom Air’s statement reaffirmed its commitment to safety and service standards, stating that unruly conduct will not be tolerated on board its aircraft. The airline noted that while the incident was regrettable, the safety of crew and passengers remains its top priority.
Law enforcement authorities are expected to review the matter, with possible legal implications for both the passenger and those responsible for distributing the video.