The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched a search and rescue operation following the crash of an ATR-42 aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday, October 5. Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF's Director of Public Relations and Information, confirmed the incident in an official statement, stating that the aircraft was on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Ejodame said in the statement: "Search and rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing." He added, "The NAF is committed to ensuring the success of the ongoing search and rescue efforts. Further details will be communicated in due course."
The statement did not disclose the number of personnel on board the aircraft, the cause of the crash, or the condition of those involved. The NAF said it would provide additional information as the situation develops.
Ondo State Government Yet to Respond
The Ondo State Government had not issued a statement on the crash in the Ilaje area of the state as of the time of this report. Emergency response agencies are working with the NAF on the ground.
Non-commercial air accidents involving military aircraft, helicopters, private jets, or training flights are relatively rare in Nigeria, with only occasional incidents recorded over recent years. The Igbokoda crash, however, has prompted a swift mobilisation of emergency resources, with the NAF working alongside other response agencies on the ground.
Legit.ng will provide more details in subsequent reports.
