Following confirmation by the Nigerian Air Force of the crash of one of its aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed state emergency agencies and security authorities to provide full support for the ongoing search and rescue operation.
Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed that the aircraft, an ATR-42 with tail number NGR 931, was involved in an accident while operating a routine flight from Benin to Lagos on Monday, October 5.
The aircraft came down in a swampy area opposite the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, prompting the immediate activation of a search and rescue operation involving the Nigerian Air Force and other relevant emergency agencies.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said 25 passengers and seven crew members were aboard the aircraft, bringing the total number of people on board to 32. Authorities have yet to release an official casualty figure as rescue efforts continue.
Reacting to the incident, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed deep concern over the crash and directed the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency, Ministry of Health and relevant security agencies to immediately mobilise personnel, medical resources and logistics to support the Nigerian Air Force and other responders.
The governor also ordered that the crash site be secured and cordoned off to allow rescue teams to operate without obstruction and prevent unauthorised access.
Aiyedatiwa said he was in contact with the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force, the Ilaje Local Government administration and security agencies as efforts continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the condition of those on board.
He urged residents of Igbokoda and surrounding communities to remain calm, cooperate with emergency personnel and avoid spreading unverified information while the rescue operation remains ongoing.
The cause of the crash has not been established, with the Nigerian Air Force expected to provide further updates as search, rescue and assessment efforts progress.
