A tragic aircraft crash occurred in Igbokoda, Ondo State, Nigeria, on Monday, resulting in the loss of 32 lives. The ATR-42 aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed in a swampy area. The aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members. The incident has sparked an immediate response from the state government, with Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa directing the deployment of emergency support.
Governor Aiyedatiwa has ordered the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Ministry of Health, and relevant security agencies to provide full logistical and human support to the Nigerian Air Force and other emergency response agencies. The governor's directive aims to enhance the ongoing search-and-rescue exercise at the crash site. The area has been cordoned off to ensure smooth and unhindered rescue operations.
The crash occurred in a swampy area of Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje LGA of Ondo State. According to the Nigerian Air Force Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, an air commodore, preliminary reports confirmed the details of the incident. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also confirmed the number of passengers and crew members on board.
Governor Aiyedatiwa has been in contact with the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force, the Ilaje Local Government Chairman, Maurice Oripelaye, and security agencies on the ground. The governor expressed his deep sadness upon receiving the news of the crash and has been working closely with relevant authorities to coordinate the response efforts.
The state government has urged residents of Igbokoda and adjoining communities to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders. The government has also advised against spreading unverified information, emphasizing the need for accurate updates from official sources. Governor Aiyedatiwa has assured that the state government will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
On behalf of the Government and people of Ondo State, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his heartfelt sympathy to the Chief of Air Staff, the entire Nigerian Air Force family, and the families of all personnel and passengers on board the ill-fated aircraft. The governor's statement conveyed thoughts and prayers for the safety of the gallant officers and the success of the rescue efforts.
The incident has prompted a comprehensive response from the state government, with a focus on supporting the search-and-rescue operations and providing assistance to those affected. The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the smooth execution of the rescue efforts and providing updates to the public as the situation unfolds.
Key points
- Governor Aiyedatiwa directs emergency response and support for search-and-rescue operations.
- 32 people killed in the ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
- State government urges calm and cooperation from residents and emphasizes accurate information dissemination.
