Nigerian Air Force reduces water levels at Ondo aircraft crash site

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reported a significant reduction in water levels at the crash site of its ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State. As recovery operations entered their 14th day, personnel have been using continuous pumping to dewater the swampy area where the aircraft went down on October 5.

The crash, which occurred during a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos, resulted in the deaths of all 25 people on board, including five crew members and 20 passengers. To maintain stability during the dewatering process, recovery teams are reinforcing embankments with sandbags to prevent collapses.

The operation has faced environmental concerns from local residents, including offensive odors and potential contamination of community water sources. In response, the Ondo State Government has directed the ministries of environment and health to intervene through measures such as fumigation and the potential distribution of potable water if local supplies are deemed unsafe.