LAGOS — United Nigeria Airlines on Monday removed two prominent Nigerian social media personalities, Martins Vincent Otse (popularly known as VeryDarkMan) and Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi (known as Mr Jollof), from a scheduled Asaba-to-Lagos flight following a physical altercation during boarding. The passengers were subsequently handed over to airport security authorities.
The incident occurred at Asaba International Airport ahead of Flight UN0523 on the morning of 17 November 2025.
In a statement posted on its official X account and signed by the airline’s management, United Nigeria Airlines confirmed the disruption and outlined the crew’s response:
“An altercation occurred between two passengers identified as Martins Vincent Otse ‘VeryDarkMan’ and Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi ‘Mr Jollof’ during boarding. In full compliance with global aviation safety protocols, our crew responded immediately and professionally to de-escalate the situation. Both passengers were deboarded without delay to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of all other passengers and crew members. They were subsequently handed over to airport security for further investigation.”
The airline emphasised its strict safety policy, stating it maintains “a zero-tolerance approach to any conduct that threatens the security or well-being of passengers or crew.” After standard procedures were completed, the flight departed Asaba without further incident.
The confrontation marks the latest escalation in a weeks-long public feud between the two internet figures, who have repeatedly clashed on social media over various socio-political issues. Their online exchanges have attracted considerable attention and polarised followers.
As of publication, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) had not issued an official comment on the matter. Attempts to reach NCAA spokespersons for reaction were unsuccessful.
United Nigeria Airlines reiterated its commitment to “providing a safe, respectful, and secure travel experience” for all passengers across its network.
