Security operatives have tightened access to the site of Monday's Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State. The crash site, located about 500 meters east of the Naval Base, has been cordoned off to prevent journalists and other persons from accessing the area. Some journalists who visited the crash site without authorization were reportedly arrested by operatives of the Forward Operating Base (FOB), Igbokoda.
The aircraft crash occurred on Monday, and more than 24 hours later, recovery operations are still ongoing. The crash site is located in a swampy and largely inaccessible terrain, making it difficult for emergency responders to access. The aircraft plunged deep into the swamp, with portions of the wreckage submerged in murky water and surrounded by thick vegetation and mangroves.
The state Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, visited the area in a canoe to assess the situation. He said the difficult terrain had made access to the crash site particularly challenging. Ohagwu thanked the OCA, Marine, and the DPO in Igbokoda, who have been on the ground since the crash, providing support. He also mentioned that more technical support is being awaited, including a bigger machine to pull the wreckage from the water.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, has been involved in the search and rescue operation. He confirmed that access to the crash site remained a major challenge. Ajaka spent several hours in the forest with the Commanding Officer of the FOB, Igbokoda, supervising the operation and coordinating medical support. Personnel and ambulances have been deployed from hospitals in Ilaje and Okitipupa local government areas.
Ajaka urged members of the public to desist from circulating unverified information about the incident, describing the crash as a national disaster that should not be politicized. He commended the Commanding Officer of FOB Igbokoda and his men, as well as medical personnel from various hospitals involved in the search and rescue operation. The operation will continue with the deployment of swamp buggies and other specialized equipment.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa directed the deployment of personnel and ambulances from hospitals in Ilaje and Okitipupa local government areas. The incident has resulted in an outpouring of support and condolences from various quarters. The government and emergency responders are working to recover the wreckage and provide support to those affected.
Key points
- The crash site has been cordoned off by security operatives to prevent unauthorized access.
- The difficult terrain is making recovery operations challenging.
- Emergency responders are awaiting heavier equipment to pull the wreckage from the water.
