Legendary Fuji musician, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as K1 De Ultimate, has tendered an unreserved apology over the controversial incident that occurred at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on August 5, 2025.
In a public statement issued on Friday, K1 described the incident involving himself and ValueJet Airline as “unfortunate,” while offering clarifications to counter circulating reports that he attempted to board a domestic flight with alcohol in his possession.
According to the music icon, the flask he was carrying at the time of the incident contained only water — not alcohol as widely alleged. He explained that due to a medical condition of chronic dehydration, his doctor advised that he stay constantly hydrated, hence the presence of a water flask.
“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.
He further noted that the flask was empty when he passed through two airport security checks and was only filled with water at the airport lounge just before he proceeded to the tarmac. He called on authorities to verify the claim through CCTV footage available at the lounge.
K1 also dismissed the narrative that he was deboarded, stating that he had not even boarded the plane before the incident occurred.
While insisting that it was never his intention to violate aviation protocols or cause any disruption, the renowned performer acknowledged the concerns raised and expressed deep regret over the matter.
“My unwavering patriotism and unshaken 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 stated.
He extended his heartfelt apology to the Presidency, the Ministry of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), ValueJet, Nigerians, and his fans around the world.
The statement comes days after the NCAA blacklisted the musician from domestic flights for six months over what it termed a “security breach.”