A Call to Nigerian Lawyers and Human Services Providers to Support Comfort Emmanson, a Victim of ttt Oppressive and Discriminatory Nigerian System
_Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice._
-Proverbs 31:9-10 (NLT)
The recent statement by the Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON), which imposed a life ban on Comfort Emmanson without a fair hearing, highlights the alarming disregard for fundamental rights in Nigeria.
It is disheartening that institutions and individuals meant to uphold justice have instead become violators. As airlines operating in Nigerian airspace, you cannot choose to ignore the constitutional rights of any Nigerian to a fair hearing and freedom from discrimination simply because you hold a monopoly.
AON’s hasty decision regarding the young woman reflects a severe misunderstanding of justice, especially given that there has been no preliminary administrative hearing to allow her to present her side of the story. We must question whether the airline may have misrepresented the situation and used its corporate power to publicly vilify her. The airline could just be lying about many things until we hear her side. Why has there been such a rush to punish her before an official inquiry has even commenced?
In addition to this premature punishment, we must ask where an association derives the power to impose such a severe penalty without considering an individual’s fundamental rights. The woman in question is a Nigerian citizen, and even stateless persons have rights that should be respected; they should not be treated as national orphans. While it’s true that deviant behavior warrants punishment, such punishment should not be disproportionate.
The clearly disproportionate punishment meted out by AON against this ordinary female passenger, especially after her public humiliation by the flight attendants, underscores a systemic discrimination against women in Nigeria. In contrast, a recent incident involving a socially and politically influential male musician, who posed a far greater security threat to airlines, saw AON lack the courage to act. The airline and relevant regulators hesitated until the Minister of Aviation intervened with only a minor reprimand and a slap in the wrist. It is a shame!
The unfortunate reality is that this woman appears isolated and without political connections, which seems to have prompted AON to act as if it is bold and above the law. This is a clear case of discrimination.
AON’s action in this matter is unacceptable. As the Convener of Lawyers Across, a network of lawyers offering pro bono services to individuals facing oppression and are highlydistressed, I call upon lawyers in the jurisdiction where this young woman is being held to extend their help and support in the name of justice and humanity.
As legal practitioners, we must remember that justice involves protecting the rights of the accused, not only serving the interests of the state and the accuser. In cases where large institutions rally against an individual, it is our duty to protect and support that individual.
The young woman in question must receive immediate legal assistance if she does not already have it. Lawyers Across is prepared to offer financial and expert support in the human rights field to any lawyer or law firm in the Lagos jurisdiction willing to provide assistance.
However, if the local legal community in Lagos is slow to respond, Walter Ogar, a lawyer in Abuja, and I are ready to step in to provide the necessary legal aid. Today it is her turn; may it not be yours tomorrow, as oppression comes in cycles and at different levels. Let us work towards a country where justice is truly for all.
Frank Tietie, Esq.
Convener, Lawyers Across
