Fuji Icon, Wasiu Ayinde Apologises Over Airport Row, Denies Alcohol Claim

MICHAEL AKINOLA

Fuji music legend, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, better known as K1 De Ultimate, has apologised for the altercation that ensued between him and some employees of ValueJet at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday.

In a widely-circulated video and press statement personally signed by the music superstar and made available to our Correspondent on Friday, K1 expressed regret over the controversy, stating that “Nothing can justify my indiscretion, which has justifiably drawn the anger of many. I totally regret it.”

He however clarified that the flask he carried contained “only water not alcohol,” and that it was handed to him at the airport lounge while he awaited boarding.

The full statement titled ‘MY HEARTFELT APOLOGY’ reads:

“The incident that occurred at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on August 5, 2025, involving my humble self and ValueJet Airline, was to say the least, unfortunate.

“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. And 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.

“For the record, I passed through two security screenings with the flask empty. The flask was only filled with water at the lounge area, just before heading to the tarmac. This fact can be verified by the CCTV footage at the airport lounge. More so, I hadn’t even boarded the plane, let alone being deboarded.

“However, 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.

“My unwavering patriotism and unshaken loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria have never been in doubt. 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, nor would I knowingly act in a way that could diminish the reputation of the country I love so dearly. That said, the incident is sincerely regretted. I remain committed to upholding the values and responsibilities that come with being a global ambassador of Nigerian music and culture.

“To the Presidency, Ministry of Aviation, FAAN, NCAA, ValueJet, fellow Nigerians, and my teeming fans across the world who have shown great concern since the incident happened, I tender my unreserved and heartfelt apology.

Thank you.

King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (K1 De Ultimate)