Legendary Fuji singer Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1 or K1 De Ultimate, has firmly denied recent allegations by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) that he violated security procedures while attempting to board a flight at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
FAAN had earlier alleged that the 68-year-old singer tried to board a ValueJet flight to Lagos while carrying an “unidentified liquid substance,” and that he refused to cooperate with both airport security and the flight captain. The report also accused him of spilling alcohol on officials during the confrontation.
As the controversy spread on Wednesday, it was also reported that two ValueJet pilots had been suspended in connection with the matter, drawing even more public attention.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Kunle Rasheed, the music veteran refuted all allegations and described the entire report as misleading. According to him, what was claimed to be alcohol was nothing more than bottled water provided to him at the airport lounge.
“We wish to categorically state that this narrative is not only exaggerated but also misleading.
At no point did K1 act in a manner that endangered lives or breached safety regulations. The substance in question — which was wrongly sensationalized — was nothing more than plain drinking water, given to him at the airport lounge while he waited to board the aircraft. Despite his respectful effort to clarify this, the situation was unnecessarily escalated.”
He also pushed back against claims that he disrupted flight operations or caused a delay, insisting that such stories do not reflect the conduct of someone who is well-versed in both local and international air travel.
“Claims that K1 blocked the aircraft or attempted to disrupt operations are completely unfounded. The veteran artiste, who is globally respected and frequently travels both locally and internationally, understands and strictly adheres to aviation protocols.”
The statement went on to reveal that following the incident, top officials from FAAN and ValueJet reached out privately to apologise and even offered to arrange a complimentary private jet to Lagos — a gesture K1 turned down.
“If indeed there had been anything inappropriate in his conduct, the Head of Airport Security, officials from relevant agencies such as FAAN and NCAA, as well as the Chairman and Managing Director of the airline, would not have reached out personally to appeal, tender apologies, and even go as far as arranging a private jet to fly him to Lagos — at no cost. Despite persistent persuasion from the airline’s top executives, K1 graciously declined the offer.”
KWAM 1 further stated that only he and his personal assistant were involved in the situation, and that other passengers had stepped in to de-escalate tensions after witnessing the events unfold.
“It must also be emphasized that K1 was the victim in this incident. No one else but him and his personal assistant was directly involved. A few concerned passengers who witnessed the incident firsthand appealed to him to remain calm, recognizing the undue pressure he was under.”
He also addressed the reported suspension of one of the pilots, suggesting that she may be trying to shift blame to cover her actions during the incident.
“In light of recent developments, it is important to note that the pilot involved now has her license suspended. Given the circumstances, it is no surprise if she attempts to deflect blame — surely, she must lie to cover herself up.
More concerning, however, is that the pilot’s hasty and irrational decision did not only misrepresent the situation but also directly endangered the lives of K1 and those who were peacefully trying to resolve the issue. Such conduct, especially from someone entrusted with the responsibility of safely operating an aircraft, is deeply troubling and falls far below professional standards.”
KWAM 1 ended the statement by calling for fairness and caution in media coverage and public judgment, reaffirming his commitment to cooperate with relevant authorities in resolving the issue.
“We urge the media and the public to avoid sensationalism and allow the truth — not assumptions — to guide their judgment. K1 remains a law-abiding citizen and continues to cooperate fully with all relevant authorities to ensure that the matter is responsibly resolved.”
