Passengers on United Nigeria Airlines flight UN0523 expected a normal Monday morning journey out of Asaba International Airport. Instead, many found themselves caught in the middle of an unusual scene—two well-known Nigerian social media personalities, Martins Otse, popularly known as Very Dark Man (VDM), and comedian Freedom Atsepoyi, widely called Mr Jollof, engaged in a physical fight inside the aircraft.
The incident, which happened on Monday, November 17, quickly spread online after a video recorded by a passenger went viral, sparking conversations across Nigeria’s digital space.
A Fight That Stopped a Plane
According to Chibuike Uloka, spokesperson for United Nigeria Airlines, the clash erupted while passengers were still boarding the aircraft. Uloka explained that crew members acted swiftly once they noticed the commotion.
“In full compliance with global aviation safety protocols, our crew responded immediately and professionally to de-escalate the situation,” he said. “Both passengers were de-boarded without delay to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of all other passengers and crew members.”
The airline confirmed that VDM and Mr Jollof were handed over to airport security for investigation. The flight later continued its journey without them.
What Sparked the Fight?
For now, the cause of the altercation remains unclear. However, the video circulating online gives a glimpse into the tense atmosphere inside the plane.
In the clip, VDM can be heard saying angrily that he would “slap somebody and come down from the plane.” He then moves close to Mr Jollof, and moments later, the argument turns physical. Passengers can be heard shouting:
“VDM! VDM, please! Make una hold that guy now!”
The short but chaotic moment left many passengers frightened and confused as crew members rushed to restore order.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has already announced that it will investigate the incident. Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, condemned the fight in strong terms.
“No matter what caused the disagreement, nothing justifies unruly behaviour aboard an aircraft,” Achimugu wrote in a post on X. “Both individuals will face the full weight of the law. It is even more disappointing because they influence millions of followers and should be helping to discourage such behaviour.”
Achimugu added that full details about the NCAA’s position will be released soon.
This incident is coming on the heels of several similar cases in recent months:
- In early 2024, popular Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde (K1 De Ultimate) was suspended from flying for six months after an incident with airline staff. The ban was later lifted and converted into an ambassadorial role.
- In August, the Airline Operators of Nigeria placed Comfort Emmanson, a female passenger who clashed with Ibom Air officials, on a temporary “No Fly” list. Her ban was lifted following further investigation and intervention.
Aviation experts say the rise in unruly behaviour poses a serious safety risk. According to aviation regulations, fighting, making threats, or causing disorder inside an aircraft or terminal is a punishable offence, which may attract heavy fines or even criminal prosecution.
While Nigerians continue to debate the incident online—some blaming VDM, others blaming Mr Jollof—the authorities are expected to release official findings soon.
For now, both men remain with airport security as investigations continue. What started as an ordinary flight turned into a moment of national conversation about celebrity behaviour, aviation safety, and accountability.
One thing is clear: the fight may have lasted only a few seconds, but its impact continues to ripple far beyond the cabin of flight UN0523.
