The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has said that Fuji music veteran Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM 1, taking up an ambassadorial role for airport security protocol is a common practice across the world and does not require pay.
This comes after Minister Keyamo reduced KWAM 1’s six-month no-fly ban to a month.
Recall that the ban stemmed from a ‘dispute’ between the Fuji artiste and ValueJet aircraft officials over his refusal to drop a prohibited flask suspected to contain alcohol before boarding. Consequently, the singer allegedly obstructed the aircraft from taking off.
“In the case of KWAM 1, the NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. FAAN will also work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward,” Keyamo had earlier stated today.
However, he elaborated on KWAM 1’s ambassadorial role, saying: “For further clarification, it is common practice all over the world that a repentant offender is made to preach publicly against the exact conduct from which he has repented. It is akin to Community Service. It is not paid for and it is voluntary service.
“Unfortunately, in Nigeria, some would assume that once you hear the word ‘Ambassador’ it is a big position that comes with the perquisites of office. No, it is not. It is for free. It is not the first time it is happening in Nigeria and it will not be the last. Examples abound of such roles given to repentant persons by previous governments in Nigeria.
“Whilst the Aviation agencies are considering using KWAM 1 for such a role, in my discussion last night with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), they are also looking at the option of using Ms. Comfort Emmanson, who has also shown remorse, as their own Ambassador for good passenger conduct.”
The Minister, however, noted that it is left for the AON to work out the details since Emmanson has been released from prison custody.
“Whilst the usual suspects can continue to question our decisions on this issue, we firmly believe we have been fair to all,” he added.
