Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Ondo State triggers investigation

Search and recovery operations are ongoing in Igbokoda, Ondo State, following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft. The incident, involving an ATR-42, occurred while personnel were traveling from Benin to Lagos. Approximately 25 people are believed to have been aboard the aircraft.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa visited the site, describing it as a “very gory sight.” He noted that eyewitnesses reported the pilot may have encountered engine problems but successfully maneuvered the aircraft away from the Igbokoda community, crashing it into a swamp roughly 200 meters away. This action is credited with preventing a larger civilian catastrophe. Recovery efforts have faced challenges due to the dense, swampy terrain, prompting the deployment of amphibious machines to assist rescue teams.

The Nigerian Air Force has established a board of inquiry to investigate the cause of the crash. In response to the tragedy, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, have agreed to strengthen cooperation between the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Air Force. This collaboration aims to improve aviation safety, airworthiness, and training through a new joint committee.