Popular Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, also known as K1 De Ultimate, has issued a heartfelt apology to the Nigerian public and aviation authorities following an incident at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on August 5, 2025 — an event that has since drawn widespread attention and led to a six-month blacklist by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
In a public statement released on Friday, K1 described the incident involving him and ValueJet Airline as “unfortunate,” but clarified several circulating rumours — particularly those suggesting he was carrying alcohol.
“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 stated.
“Contrary to the negative narrative being circulated in some quarters, the flask I carried on that particular day contained only water — not alcohol, as wrongly alleged.”
What Really Happened? K1 Gives His Side
According to K1, he passed through two layers of security at the Abuja terminal with an empty flask, which was only filled with drinking water at the airport lounge before he approached the tarmac.
“This fact can be verified by the CCTV footage at the airport lounge,” he explained.
“More so, I hadn’t even boarded the plane, let alone being deboarded.”
This clarification contradicts earlier viral reports claiming the singer caused a disruption onboard the aircraft. His latest comments aim to set the record straight, especially in light of NCAA’s six-month flight sanction imposed just a day earlier.
K1 Tenders Unreserved Apology
Despite defending his actions, K1 took full responsibility for the public concern generated by the incident and extended an apology to all stakeholders involved — including the Presidency, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Ministry of Aviation, the NCAA, ValueJet, and his global fanbase.
“I acknowledge and deeply regret the concerns that arose from the incident. It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols in any way,” he said.
“Over the years, I have consistently used my God-given talent and platform to promote the Nigerian brand across the globe. I would never do anything to tarnish the image I’ve built over the past five decades.”
The veteran artiste emphasized that his actions should not be misinterpreted as disrespectful to the institutions he has long supported.
“My unwavering patriotism and unshaken loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria have never been in doubt… I remain committed to upholding the values and responsibilities that come with being a global ambassador of Nigerian music and culture,” K1 said.
Context: Fallout from the ValueJet Controversy
This new apology follows a turbulent week for K1 De Ultimate. On August 6, his media aide Kunle Rasheed initially refuted all allegations of misconduct, describing the situation as exaggerated. However, the NCAA, through its spokesperson Michael Achimugu, announced a formal six-month suspension, citing “alleged misconduct” at the airport.
Though details of the disciplinary findings remain limited, the latest apology suggests an effort to de-escalate tensions and resolve the matter amicably.
Public Reactions and What Comes Next
The apology has stirred fresh conversation online, with fans and critics split on whether the sanction should remain or be reviewed in light of K1’s explanation and contrition. While some call for leniency, others argue that accountability remains essential, particularly for high-profile public figures.
The NCAA has yet to respond publicly to the statement.
Looking Ahead
Whether the aviation authorities will reconsider the blacklist remains uncertain, but K1 De Ultimate’s public show of humility may play a role in future deliberations.
For now, the legendary singer says he remains focused on promoting Nigerian music and culture — a mission he believes should never be tainted by misunderstandings.