United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed that it deboarded popular social media personalities Martins Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, and Freedom Atsepoyi, popularly called Mr Jollof, following a confrontation that broke out during the boarding of Flight UN0523 at the Asaba International Airport in Delta State.
The incident, which quickly went viral after being captured in a circulating video, showed both influencers engaged in a heated verbal exchange inside the aircraft moments before takeoff. The commotion drew the attention of passengers and crew, prompting immediate intervention.
In a statement issued by the airline’s Public Relations Officer, Chibuike Uloka, United Nigeria Airlines explained that its flight crew responded “immediately and professionally,” prioritising passenger safety throughout the incident. According to the statement, the altercation required swift action consistent with global aviation safety standards.
The airline confirmed that both men were asked to disembark to prevent further disruption. They were subsequently handed over to airport security officials for additional processing and investigation.
“United Nigeria Airlines confirms that an altercation occurred between two passengers, identified as Martins Vincent Otse (VeryDarkMan) and Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi (Mr Jollof), during the boarding of Flight UN0523 at Asaba International Airport on the morning of November 17, 2025.
“In line with global aviation safety procedures, our crew promptly de-escalated the situation. Both individuals were removed from the aircraft without delay to safeguard the comfort and security of all passengers and crew.
“They were subsequently transferred to airport security for further investigation.
“United Nigeria Airlines maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any behaviour that may compromise safety.
“Once standard protocols were completed, the flight departed as scheduled, while both passengers remained with the authorities,” the statement read.
The incident has since sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing concern about rising confrontations involving public figures while others commended the airline’s adherence to safety procedures.