Ondo Air Crash: NAF Engages Igbokoda Residents Over Water, Environmental Concerns
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified recovery operations at the site of the aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, while assuring bereaved families of the prompt processing of their entitlements and other welfare benefits.
The Service also acknowledged concerns raised by residents over the potential impact of the ongoing recovery operations on their water source, assuring them of its commitment to addressing the issues through appropriate channels.
The Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, gave the assurances during a visit to Igbokoda on the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to engage community leaders and residents.
During the engagement, Ekwueme acknowledged the community’s concerns and commended residents for their patience and cooperation as recovery personnel continued working under challenging conditions.
At the crash site, the AOC interacted with personnel involved in the recovery operations, where significant progress was reported despite difficult terrain and challenging underwater conditions.
According to the NAF, multiple pumping machines have been deployed to remove water from the area surrounding the crash site to facilitate access to the main wreckage, which remains submerged and deeply embedded in the riverbed.
The Service explained that the recovery process requires sustained effort, specialised technical support and careful coordination to ensure the operation proceeds safely and effectively.
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It added that the depth at which the wreckage lies and the difficult riverbed conditions have made the operation complex, but personnel remain committed to accessing the main wreckage while prioritising their safety and preserving the dignity of the victims.
The NAF acknowledged the grief of the bereaved families and the concerns of Nigerians awaiting further developments, describing the deployment of pumping equipment as an important step towards advancing the recovery process.
Beyond the recovery operation, the Chief of the Air Staff reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to supporting affected families through the difficult period.
The NAF said all applicable entitlements, including benevolent funds, scholarships for eligible children and other approved welfare benefits, would be processed accordingly.
It stressed that its responsibility to the affected families extended beyond the recovery exercise, adding that it remained committed to providing the necessary assistance with compassion, dignity and a strong sense of duty.
To facilitate communication and provide timely information, the Service said it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters for affected families.
The NAF further assured the Igbokoda community that it would continue engaging residents over their environmental concerns while sustaining recovery operations and providing verified updates on significant developments.
The Service also commended its personnel and partner agencies for their dedication and continued efforts under difficult operational conditions.
The statement was signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on October 16, 2026.
By PRNigeria
