Fuji music legend, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has broken his silence over the recent incident involving him at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, expressing regret while clarifying that he did not breach any aviation rule.
In a personally signed statement released on Friday, the singer addressed the public outcry that followed the August 5 episode, where he was alleged to have carried alcohol onto the tarmac. He denied the claim, saying the flask in question contained only water.
“The incident that occurred at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was, to say the least, unfortunate,” K1 said.
He explained that the flask, which drew the attention of airport authorities, was empty during two rounds of security checks and was only later filled with water at the lounge.
“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. Contrary to the negative narrative being circulated in some quarters, the flask contained only water, not alcohol,” he stated.
K1 insisted that he had not boarded the aircraft at the time of the encounter, adding that surveillance footage would prove he was not deboarded, contrary to some reports making the rounds.
The veteran performer apologised to relevant authorities and Nigerians for the concerns the matter generated.
“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,” he said.
He directed his apology to the Presidency, the Ministry of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), ValueJet, and Nigerians at large.
“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,” he added.
The Fuji maestro reaffirmed his dedication to promoting Nigerian culture and music globally and thanked his supporters for standing by him during the controversy.
