Ondo Governor Supports Recovery Efforts After Nigerian Air Force Crash

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has expressed his full support for the agencies working on the search and recovery of the Nigerian Air Force aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area. His commitment came during a visit from Air Commodore Bature, the Director of Search and Rescue at the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

Upon hearing about the crash while in Abuja, Aiyedatiwa quickly directed state authorities to mobilize for the recovery efforts. He described the incident as a national tragedy and a significant loss, honoring the young officers who died while serving Nigeria.

The governor extended his condolences to the victims’ families and acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to declare three days of mourning for the deceased personnel. He noted that recovery efforts are ongoing despite the challenging conditions at the crash site, which is located in a swampy area with narrow creeks.

Local residents have been assisting the recovery operation by using smaller boats to navigate the creeks and help reach the crash site. Aiyedatiwa mentioned that these residents, along with the Navy and other responders, worked hard to rescue the victims, though unfortunately, there were no survivors.

Aiyedatiwa plans to visit Igbokoda to meet with residents and ensure that recovery efforts continue. He thanked NEMA, the military, local government officials, and the community for their contributions and assured them of the state government’s ongoing support.

Earlier, Air Commodore Bature reported that NEMA had sent three swamp buggies to aid the recovery operation. He explained that these vehicles would help the recovery team access the crash location more effectively. Bature was in Ondo State on the orders of NEMA’s Director-General, who is currently abroad, to meet with the governor and commend him for his quick response to the incident.

He also praised the efforts of SEMA, the Navy, Army, Air Force, Police, and local residents, stating that they are working together to manage the disaster effectively. Bature expressed optimism that the aircraft wreckage and other parts would be recovered soon.