Fuji music icon, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has publicly apologised following an altercation with ValueJet airline officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on August 5, 2025.
In a statement personally signed on Friday, the veteran musician described the incident as “unfortunate” and sought to clarify the circumstances.
“Unknown to many, I suffer from chronic dehydration, and my doctor strongly advised that I remain constantly hydrated. This is why I always carry a water flask with me,” K1 said. “Contrary to the negative narrative in some quarters, the flask contained only water — not alcohol.”
He explained that the flask was empty during two separate security checks and was only filled with water at the airport lounge before he proceeded to the tarmac. He stressed that he had not boarded the aircraft at the time of the incident, “let alone being deboarded.”
The legendary singer apologised to the Presidency, the Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, ValueJet, and Nigerians at large.
“I acknowledge and deeply regret the concerns that arose from the incident,” K1 said. “It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols. My unwavering patriotism and loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria have never been in doubt. I would never do anything to tarnish the image I’ve built over the past five decades.”
