League for Social Justice Condemns Ibom Air Passenger Misconduct, Demands Lawful, Rights-Based Enforcement

The League for Social Justice (LSJ) has called for a balanced approach to handling the recent Ibom Air incident, where a passenger was removed, prosecuted, and subjected to an industry-wide lifetime ban by the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON).

“Air safety is non-negotiable, but so is the rule of law,” said Dr. LaBode Obanor, LSJ President. “We cannot replace lawful process with mob justice or private blacklists that lack transparency, proportionality, and appeal rights.”

LSJ expressed concern over:

• The legality of an industry-wide ban issued by a private association without regulatory authority.

• The unlawful leak of indecent footage, which it says breaches the Nigeria Data Protection Act and constitutional rights.

• Regulatory gaps that risk turning legitimate safety enforcement into public spectacle.

The group is urging:

• The NCAA and FAAN to formalize a national No-Fly List with clear rules and due process.

• An investigation into the privacy breach and sanctions for those responsible.

• Mandatory crew training on lawful restraint and evidence handling.

“Safety and dignity must co-exist. Nigeria’s aviation sector can protect its skies without trampling on fundamental rights,” Dr. Obanor said.