NBA Human Rights Institute Demands Ibom Air Apology and Compensation Over Release of Comfort Emmanson Assault Footage
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Human Rights Institute has condemned the “inhumane and degrading treatment” of Ms. Comfort Emmanson by Ibom Air officials during an incident aboard the airline on 10 August 2025, calling for immediate compensation and a public apology.
In a statement signed by its Chairman and NBA First Vice President, Sabastine Anyia, Esq., the Institute described the actions of Ibom Air staff as a gross violation of Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees every individual the right to dignity of person and prohibits torture, inhumane, or degrading treatment.
According to the Institute, videos released by the airline’s officials show Ms. Emmanson’s blouse torn, exposing her breasts after she had allegedly been assaulted. The footage, which circulated widely online, was condemned as “indecent exposure” and “a primitive attitude” unbecoming of a democratic society.
“It is unacceptable in today’s Nigeria to strip a lady, record such a demeaning act, and allow it to be released to the public. We are human beings, not animals, and should be treated with dignity,” Anyia stated.
While clarifying that the Institute does not condone Ms. Emmanson’s alleged refusal to comply with crew instructions, Anyia stressed that there are lawful processes for addressing passenger misconduct. He insisted that the principle of audi alteram partem — the right to be heard — must be respected before any judgment or punitive action is taken.
“We have not heard Ms. Comfort’s side of the story, yet we have all seen the humiliation she suffered. She is not a mad woman to start fighting officials without reason. The truth will come out, and Nigerians deserve to hear it,” he said.
The NBA Human Rights Institute called on Ibom Air to, Issue a public apology to Ms. Emmanson, Pay adequate compensation for the violation of her rights and the emotional trauma caused, Identify and sanction the individuals responsible for filming and releasing the indecent footage.
“This country belongs to both the rich and the poor, the high and the low. Justice must be for all. Don’t applaud yet — it’s not over,” Anyia concluded.
