Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has criticised the harsh treatment given to Comfort Emmanson, a passenger accused of assaulting an Ibom Air hostess and airport officials.
The controversy began after video clips went viral showing Emmanson slapping, kicking, and insulting airline staff. Eyewitnesses say the incident started when she refused to switch off her phone before takeoff, as required by airline rules.
In one disturbing video, Emmanson was dragged off the plane by security officers with her clothing torn, exposing her breast in public. She was later arraigned and detained while investigations continue.
Reacting on Tuesday, Sowore listed three major problems with how Emmanson was treated. First, he condemned the rude attitude of some Nigerian flight attendants who treat passengers with little respect, unlike airlines abroad where phone use during flights is more relaxed.
Second, he strongly denounced the public sexual humiliation Emmanson faced, calling it degrading and potentially causing lasting trauma.
Third, Sowore criticised the legal actions taken against her, calling it unfair and arbitrary, highlighting a pattern of selective justice in Nigeria where ordinary citizens face harsh punishment while powerful individuals escape accountability.
Sowore described the incident as part of a wider culture of abuse, humiliation, and impunity that affects Nigerians from customer service to the justice system. He urged authorities to rethink their approach and treat all passengers with dignity and fairness.
