BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Amid speculations that the Presidency might shield Fuji music legend, King Wasiu Omogbolahan Olasunkanmi Adewale Ayinde Marshal, widely known as K1 De Ultimate from disciplinary consequences due to his perceived closeness to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has strongly dispelled such claims, affirming the President’s full respect for aviation protocols and institutional independence.
The musician, whose conduct reportedly disrupted standard flight operations on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. The flight, designated VK201, became the subject of concern after preliminary reports alleged breaches of Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) 2023 by the music icon.
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, said President Tinubu has never interfered in the authority’s oversight responsibilities and remains an advocate of the rule of law.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not abuse safety and security protocols at any airport.
“He recognises the regulatory powers of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and has never interfered or hampered the Authority’s ability to carry out its functions. In fact, Mr. President made aviation a cornerstone of his economic agenda, and we are seeing the results”, Achimugu said in a statement.
Addressing the rising social media commentary linking the President to the unfolding incident, Achimugu reiterated that aviation safety is non-political and should remain above sentiment or speculation.
“We must make it clear that the situation at hand is not political. Aviation laws are universal, designed to protect all lives on board regardless of one’s status or position. The NCAA operates on global best practices, and no one is above the law,” he explained.
He added that President Tinubu not only adheres to security checks like every other citizen but also encourages full compliance by all Nigerians.
“We are fortunate to have a President who leads by example. His administration has demonstrated zero tolerance for protocol violations, and the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, reinforced this position with a strong public statement earlier today,” Achimugu noted.
Calling for calm and patience, the NCAA urged the public to allow the investigative process to reach its logical conclusion without undue pressure or prejudgment.
“Public perception must not be mistaken for established facts. We urge all Nigerians to allow the facts to speak for themselves as more evidence emerges. Justice will be served fairly and in line with the law,” the NCAA stated.
As investigations progress, the Authority reaffirmed its commitment to a safe, secure, and transparent aviation sector where every stakeholder, regardless of fame, influence, or affiliation, is held to the same standard of accountability.
Meanwhile, the NCAA has petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation and the Inspector-General of Police, calling for a comprehensive investigation and prosecution of the musician.
While the full details of the incident are still under review, the NCAA said it is determined to enforce strict compliance with safety rules and hold all offenders accountable, regardless of social status or public profile.
In a significant move highlighting its commitment to safety, the NCAA also advised the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) to consider placing K1 De Ultimate on a temporary No-Fly List for commercial flights pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
According to the regulatory body, this recommendation aligns with international aviation standards that prioritise the safety of passengers, crew, and airline operations.
