United Nigeria Airlines Insists Probe into VDM and Mr Jollof’s Mid-Air Altercation Remains Active Despite Public Apologies

The controversy surrounding the in-flight brawl between popular social media personalities Martins Otse (VeryDarkMan, VDM) and Freedom Atsepoyi (Mr. Jollof) has taken a decisive turn, with the airline involved confirming that the matter is far from concluded. Today, Wednesday, November 19, 2025, United Nigeria Airlines insisted that its investigation into the incident remains active, despite the high-profile public apologies issued by both men.

The altercation, which began as an escalation of a long-running online feud, erupted inside a United Nigeria Airlines aircraft at Asaba International Airport on Monday, causing significant delays and inconvenience for passengers aboard the Lagos-bound flight.

In their separate apology videos posted on Tuesday, both VDM and Mr. Jollof expressed deep regret. Mr. Jollof apologized to the airline and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), claiming he was defending himself. VDM went further, acknowledging he “acted irresponsibly” and took full responsibility for potentially jeopardizing the vital commitments of fellow travellers.

NCAA Sanctions Loom

However, the airline’s spokesperson told reporters today that the public display of remorse does not circumvent the established procedures. “Investigations are still ongoing,” the spokesperson confirmed, stating that the company has not yet taken a final disciplinary position on the fracas.

The case remains under parallel investigation by the NCAA, the aviation sector regulator, which has already condemned the conduct as an “unacceptable behavior” that endangered both passengers and crew. The NCAA Director of Public Affairs warned that sanctions are imminent once the formal incident report is submitted by the airline. Potential penalties for such unruly behavior include steep fines, criminal prosecution, and the recommendation for a no-fly restriction on both individuals, in line with the country’s aviation safety laws.

The airline’s firm stance underscores the seriousness with which aviation regulators treat any breach of conduct that compromises safety protocols within the cabin environment.