United Nigeria Airlines Accepts Apologies From VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof After Cabin Brawl

United Nigeria Airlines has accepted public apologies from social media influencers, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, and Freedom Atsepoyi, popularly called Mr Jollof, following a brawl aboard one of its flights on Monday.

LEADERSHIP recalls that the incident occurred during boarding at Asaba International Airport and has sparked nationwide discussions on passenger conduct and aviation safety in Nigeria.

In a statement released on Thursday, the airline acknowledged the apologies issued by the two men via their social media platforms.

“United Nigeria Airlines acknowledges and accepts the public apologies issued by VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof following the onboard altercation that occurred during the boarding of Flight UN0523 from Asaba International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on 17 November 2025,” the statement read.

The airline added, “We take note of their commitments expressed via their respective social media platforms to refrain from any conduct that could compromise aviation safety, order, or decorum onboard United Nigeria Airlines flights or any other airline. We trust that this undertaking will be honoured in the interest of maintaining a safe, respectful, and orderly travel environment for all passengers.”

The company also reiterated its alignment with the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and other regulatory bodies in addressing unruly passenger behaviour, urging travellers to cooperate with airline personnel, security agencies, and airport authorities to ensure the safety of air travel.

Videos circulating online showed the two influencers exchanging blows and grappling on board, while other passengers, including comedian Funnybone intervened.

United Nigeria Airlines confirmed that both individuals were deboarded and handed over to security personnel at Asaba Airport.

The clash stemmed from a longstanding online feud dating back to 2024, when VeryDarkMan had publicly threatened to confront Mr Jollof upon sighting him anywhere.

In a video apology posted on Instagram on Tuesday, VeryDarkMan, appearing with bandages on his head and arm, expressed regret for the disruption.

“I would really like to apologise for what happened yesterday on the United Nigerian Airlines. What happened yesterday was not supposed to happen, and I will take full responsibility for it,” he said, extending apologies to fellow travellers, the pilot, flight attendants, and all passengers on board.

While admitting he acted “irresponsibly,” he noted that such incidents would not reoccur in public spaces like planes or buses.

Mr Jollof, a comedian and media personality, also issued an apology via Instagram, clarifying that he was “not a violent person” and was merely defending himself during the scuffle.

“I want to use this medium to sincerely apologise to the NCAA, United Nigeria Airlines, and the passengers. I was only defending myself. You guys saw what happened. I am very sorry if I delayed your appointment. I’m very sorry. Pardon me… I am not that kind of person; it will never happen again,” he said, also apologising to his family.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) condemned the incident, warning that unruly passenger behaviour could lead to criminal prosecution, including potential jail time. NCAA’s Acting Director of Public Affairs, Michael Achimugu, described the fight as a “serious infraction” that endangers lives, noting that aviation regulations strictly prohibit such conduct.