United Nigeria Airlines has officially responded to the public apologies issued by Martins “VeryDarkMan” Otse and comedian Freedom “Mr Jollof” Atsepoyi following their onboard altercation earlier this week.
The incident took place on Monday, November 17, 2025, as both men were boarding Flight UN0523 from Asaba International Airport, Delta State, to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The confrontation attracted attention from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), whose Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, condemned the incident and warned that the individuals involved could face legal consequences.
On Tuesday, both VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof posted apology videos on Instagram, expressing regret to the NCAA, the airline, passengers, and the wider public. Mr Jollof explained that he acted in self-defense after being provoked by VeryDarkMan, citing ongoing, unproven claims of infidelity involving his wife, which are currently under legal review.
In a statement released on Thursday, United Nigeria Airlines, through its Public Relations Officer Chibuike Uloka, confirmed it had received and accepted the apologies. The airline emphasized that it expects both men to uphold their commitments and refrain from actions that could compromise aviation safety, order, or decorum.
“United Nigeria Airlines acknowledges and accepts the public apologies issued by VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof following the onboard altercation during the boarding of Flight UN0523 from Asaba to Lagos. We take note of their commitments expressed via social media to refrain from any conduct that could compromise aviation safety, order, or decorum onboard United Nigeria Airlines flights or any other airline,” the airline said.
The airline also commended the prompt response of the NCAA, Airport Security (AVSEC), relevant aviation agencies, and the staff at Asaba International Airport, as well as its crew for professionally handling the incident while following safety protocols.
United Nigeria Airlines reiterated its cooperation with the Airline Operators of Nigeria and other regulatory bodies in efforts to curb unruly passenger behavior. The airline urged travelers to cooperate with airline staff, security personnel, and airport authorities to ensure safe and orderly air travel.
“United Nigeria Airlines remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and dignified service to all passengers across its network. United Nigeria Airlines — Flying to Unite!” the statement concluded.
