K1 De Ultimate Clarifies Airport Incident, Tenders Apology to Nigerians, Authorities
Fuji music icon, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate), has released an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the recent incident with ValueJet Airlines at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. In the statement, he also tendered an “unreserved and heartfelt apology” to the relevant authorities and the Nigerian public.
The incident, which occurred on August 6, 2025, had been described by the musician as “unfortunate.” K1 explained that his actions were a result of a medical condition.
“Unknown to many, I suffer from chronic dehydration, and my doctor strongly advised that I remain constantly hydrated. This is why I always carry a water flask with me,” he stated. He maintained that the flask contained only water and not alcohol, contrary to “the negative narrative being circulated.”
K1 further clarified the timeline of events, stating, “For the record, I passed through two security screenings with the flask empty. The flask was only filled with water in the lounge area, just before heading to the tarmac. This fact can be verified by the CCTV footage at the airport lounge. More so, I hadn’t even boarded the plane, let alone been deboarded.”
However, he acknowledged and expressed deep regret for the concerns that arose from the incident, emphasising “never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols in any way.”
In his statement, K1 reiterated his patriotism and loyalty to Nigeria, noting that he has consistently used his platform to promote the Nigerian brand globally. “I would never do anything to tarnish the image I’ve built over the past five decades, nor would I knowingly act in a way that could diminish the reputation of the country I love so dearly,” he affirmed. He concluded by reiterating that the incident is “sincerely regretted” and reaffirmed his commitment to his role as a “global ambassador of Nigerian music and culture.”
The incident had previously led to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) reportedly blacklisting the musician for six months and suspending the licenses of the pilots involved for a breach of safety protocols.
Concluding his apology, K1 addressed his statement to the “Presidency, Ministry of Aviation, FAAN, NCAA, ValueJet, fellow Nigerians, and my teeming fans across the world,” thanking them for their concern. The statement was signed by King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, K1 De Ultimate.
