Airline says investigation continues despite VDM and Mr Jollof’s apologies
Nigeria’s United Nigeria Airlines has announced that its investigation into the recent in-flight clash involving popular comedian Mr Jollof and social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) is still ongoing, even though both men have publicly apologised. The airline said it has not taken any position yet, and the internal review will continue until all facts are confirmed. The clash, which happened inside one of the airline’s aircraft, caused delays and discomfort for many passengers who were scheduled to travel that day.
Both men released separate apology videos where they narrated what led to the incident. In their messages, they asked for forgiveness from United Nigeria Airlines and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and admitted that the situation disrupted the smooth running of the flight. Earlier reports had stated that the two men might face criminal charges because the altercation took place aboard an aircraft, which is considered a sensitive and highly regulated environment.
Speaking through his Instagram account, Mr Jollof explained his own side of the story. He insisted that he acted in self-defence and was not a violent person. He apologised to the airline, the NCAA, and all passengers whose plans were affected. He also expressed regret that travellers missed business appointments, personal commitments, and other important schedules because of the delay caused by the confrontation.
In his emotional message, Mr Jollof said he never intended to cause trouble and promised that such an incident would never happen again. He apologised to his wife and children, saying he hoped they would not see him differently because of the misunderstanding. He stressed that he was not proud of his actions and understood how his behaviour affected innocent passengers on the flight.
VeryDarkMan, on the other hand, also apologised deeply but admitted he could not promise that he would never get into another fight again. However, he assured Nigerians that such behaviour would never happen inside a plane, bus, or any public place where it could interrupt people’s movement. He expressed embarrassment that people looking up to him had to witness the incident online. He also apologised to a particular older woman who had repeatedly begged him to sit down during the clash, saying he felt ashamed for ignoring her plea.
VDM explained that many passengers on the flight had important things to do — from medical appointments to business contracts — and he regretted that the altercation may have affected their plans. He took full responsibility for his actions and acknowledged that even though people saw various angles on social media, his behaviour was unacceptable and disappointing.
When contacted for clarification, the spokesperson for United Nigeria Airlines, Chibuike Uloka, told The PUNCH that the airline has not concluded its investigation. He stated that the apologies from the two men do not stop the ongoing review of the incident. He added that the airline must follow due process and will only speak further once the investigation is complete.
At the moment, the airline has not taken any official position. Passengers and the general public are still waiting to hear whether disciplinary actions or charges will follow after the incident.
