Rescue Teams Comb Igbokoda Swamp For Victims Of Fatal Air Crash
The Nigerian Navy and Marine Police have begun searching for the bodies of victims and the wreckage of the Nigerian Air Force aircraft that crashed at Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, carrying 25 people — 20 passengers and five crew members — crashed in a swampy area not far from the Naval Base in Igbokoda at about 9:00 am on Monday.
Our correspondent visited the crash site and interviewed the Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohuagwu, who led a team from the command to assess the situation.
Speaking to journalists at the scene, Ohuagwu expressed dismay over the incident and said there were no survivors.
He disclosed that officers of the State Marine Police were working with the Navy and local residents to recover the remains of the victims and the aircraft wreckage.
Some residents who spoke about the crash said they were alerted by a loud noise when the aircraft went down, but it subsequently sank into the swamp, with no survivors found.
Meanwhile, Nigerian Navy personnel have restricted movement around the crash site as residents and sympathisers continue to troop to the area to see the situation for themselves.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had earlier on Monday released the names of the five crew members and 20 passengers who died in the 931 aircraft accident.
Air Commodore Ejodame said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, had expressed profound condolences to the families of the personnel and passengers who lost their lives in the accident.
The CAS described the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, expressing heartfelt sympathy to the families, loved ones, and colleagues of those who died.
He assured the bereaved families of the Service’s full support during the difficult period.
He also directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The Air Force said it would continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses. It urged the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
