WorldStage– An Air Peace flight bound for Asaba, Delta State, was forced to abort its pre-takeoff sequence and return to the airport parking ramp after a heated altercation with an unruly passenger.
According to an incident report shared by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the event unfolded on Air Peace flight P47866.
A passenger identified as Celestine Ezeudu repeatedly ignored instructions from cabin crew members to stop taking photographs and put away his mobile device as the aircraft prepared for departure.
When a second crew member approached to enforce safety regulations, an argument broke out.
During the confrontation, Ezeudu escalated the situation by declaring: “The anger I am feeling can burn down this plane.”
Recognizing a direct safety hazard, the crew immediately notified the captain, who initiated a ramp return at 15:57 hours.
Ezeudu complied with instructions to disembark without further physical resistance.
In an act of solidarity, his traveling companion also chose to leave the aircraft.
During subsequent questioning in the airport’s security room, Ezeudu claimed his emotional outburst was triggered by missing an earlier flight, stating he did not realize his actions would result in a full ramp return.
No injuries were recorded, and the flight eventually continued its journey following mandatory security sweeps.
Aviation authorities continue to emphasize zero tolerance for threats against cabin crew and non-compliance with critical pre-takeoff safety protocols.
