Outrage as Airport Official Allegedly Assaults Young Man Over Asake’s Helicopter Visit to OAU

An airport official has come under intense public backlash following a viral video showing the alleged assault of a young man at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, after singer Asake arrived on campus via helicopter on Monday, December 22.

The incident reportedly occurred near the area where the helicopter that flew the award-winning artiste to his alma mater was parked. In the now widely shared video, the young man could be seen excitedly posing beside the helicopter, clearly soaking in the moment.

According to eyewitness footage, one official initially approached the young man and instructed him to leave the restricted area. Visibly frightened, the young man bowed in submission and pleaded for forgiveness, asking if he had committed any offence. The official then walked away, leaving the situation seemingly resolved.

However, moments later, another officer suddenly rushed toward the young man and allegedly assaulted him—kicking him with a boot and slapping him—despite the absence of resistance or provocation.

The disturbing clip has since sparked widespread outrage on social media, with Nigerians condemning the officer’s conduct and calling on relevant authorities to identify and sanction him. Many users described the act as an abuse of power and an embarrassing display of force against a harmless civilian.

Opinion: Authority Is Not a License for Brutality

Beyond the celebrity buzz surrounding Asake’s visit, the incident has reopened a familiar and uncomfortable conversation in Nigeria: the misuse of authority by security personnel. While restricted zones around aircraft are understandable for safety reasons, enforcement should never descend into violence—especially against a compliant and non-threatening individual.

What angered many viewers was not just the assault itself, but the clear imbalance of power. The young man showed fear, respect, and willingness to comply. Responding to that with physical violence reflects a deeper issue of unchecked aggression and lack of accountability.

Public trust in security institutions is built on professionalism, restraint, and respect for human dignity. Incidents like this chip away at that trust and overshadow what should have been a positive, celebratory moment for students and fans alike.

As the calls for disciplinary action grow louder, many Nigerians hope this case won’t fade into silence. Accountability, even for “small” acts of brutality, sends a powerful message: authority should protect, not intimidate.