A viral video has captured a shocking moment at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, where a ValueJet plane nearly struck Fuji music icon Wasiu Ayinde Marshall, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, has sparked widespread concern. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has since suspended two ValueJet pilots for violating safety protocols, highlighting the seriousness of the event.
In the 23-second clip circulating online, K1 De Ultimate is seen standing close to the aircraft, a CRJ-900ER (registration 5N-BXS), as it begins taxiing from its bay. Reports suggest the incident followed K1 accidentally spilling alcohol on an airline employee.
Quick thinking saved him, as he swiftly ducked to avoid the plane’s wing, which came dangerously close to his head. The video shows ground staff nearby, indicating the plane moved without proper clearance.
NCAA Suspends Pilots
The NCAA responded promptly, suspending the licenses of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, with immediate effect.
In a statement, Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, called the incident a “serious breach of aviation safety protocols.”
The pilots began departure procedures without obtaining mandatory clearance from air traffic control, endangering ground personnel and violating national and international safety standards.
The suspensions will remain in place pending a full investigation.
ValueJet’s Response
ValueJet issued a statement acknowledging the incident and expressing regret. The airline confirmed it has suspended the pilots and is cooperating with the NCAA’s investigation.
“Safety is not negotiable,” the airline stated, emphasizing its commitment to regulatory standards. ValueJet praised the NCAA’s swift action and pledged to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Safety Concerns Raised
The incident has raised alarm about airport safety. The NCAA noted that the pilots’ reckless actions put ground staff, including K1, at risk. Takeoff clearance is a critical step to ensure a safe runway, and skipping it could lead to collisions or injuries.
The viral video underscores the danger, showing the plane moving while ground crew were still nearby.
Public Reaction and Implications
The video has fueled online discussions about aviation safety in Nigeria. Fans expressed relief that K1 escaped unharmed, crediting his quick reflexes. Others criticized the pilots’ actions, calling for stricter oversight. The incident highlights the importance of adhering to safety protocols to protect everyone at busy airports like Abuja’s.
As the NCAA investigates, the aviation community awaits further details. The outcome could lead to tighter regulations and increased scrutiny of airline operations. For K1 De Ultimate, the close call serves as a reminder of the risks present even on the ground at airports.
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