Peter Obi Condemns ‘Double Standards’ in Ibom Air Assault Case

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly criticised what he calls “double standards” in the handling of the Ibom Air incident involving Miss Comfort Emmanson.

In a statement released on Monday, Obi apologised to the airline’s crew members who were allegedly assaulted by Emmanson, stressing the need for civility, respect, and good conduct. However, he condemned the treatment of Emmanson, claiming she was stripped in public before being taken to court and remanded. He described the act as “unnecessary” and “the height of rascality and abuse” by security operatives.

Obi argued that the case reflects a deeper imbalance in Nigeria’s justice system, where the poor and powerless face swift punishment, while influential figures often avoid consequences. He cited the recent case of Fuji musician K1 De Ultimate — who allegedly disrupted a ValueJet flight but has not been prosecuted — as a glaring example.

“This is not just about one incident; it reflects a systemic injustice where the poor are quickly punished and the powerful are spared. This must stop,” Obi said.

The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, reigniting calls for fairness, due process, and equal application of the law. Obi urged relevant authorities, including the Minister of Aviation, to explain the disparity in how the two cases were handled.

He concluded by stating that “justice must be fair, equal, and non-selective” if Nigeria is to uphold the rule of law and build a better society.