Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has directed state emergency, health and security agencies to provide immediate support for the search and rescue operation following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.
The aircraft, identified as an ATR-42, crashed in a swampy area opposite the Naval Base in Igbokoda on Monday while travelling on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. The aircraft had 32 people on board, comprising 25 passengers and seven crew members.
Following the incident, the governor expressed sadness over the crash and extended his condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, the Chief of Air Staff and the families of those aboard the aircraft.
Aiyedatiwa directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Ministry of Health and relevant security agencies to mobilise personnel, equipment and other logistical resources to assist the NAF and other agencies involved in the rescue operation.
He also ordered security personnel to cordon off and secure the crash site and its surrounding areas to allow emergency responders to work without obstruction.
The governor said he had remained in contact with the Nigerian Air Force leadership, the Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, and security agencies deployed to the scene.
He appealed to residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities to remain calm, cooperate with emergency personnel and avoid circulating unverified information about the incident.
The Nigerian Air Force has activated a search and rescue operation in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies. At the time of the latest reports, authorities were still working at the crash site and had not released a full account of casualties.
The Ondo State Government said it would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more verified information becomes available.
President Bola Tinubu has also ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash while commending the NAF and other first responders for their efforts.
