The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has assured residents of Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State that their environmental and public health concerns following the October 5 aircraft crash will be addressed in collaboration with relevant government agencies.
The assurance follows complaints from residents about a persistent offensive odour around the river where the aircraft crashed, as well as fears of possible environmental contamination.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the military acknowledged the anxiety and discomfort experienced by the affected community.
He said the concerns raised by residents were being taken seriously and assured them that the Air Force remained committed to protecting their welfare.
The NAF explained that search and recovery operations were still ongoing, adding that it was working with relevant partner agencies to ensure the safe and orderly recovery of the aircraft wreckage.
According to the Force, a comprehensive environmental and public health assessment would be conducted after the recovery operation is completed.
It said the assessment would be carried out in collaboration with appropriate environmental, public health and other relevant authorities to determine the extent of any impact and establish the necessary response.
“The NAF remains concerned about the wellbeing of the affected community and is committed to constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders to ensure that appropriate measures are taken in the interest of public health, safety and environmental wellbeing,” the statement said.
Ondo Government Orders Emergency Measures
Meanwhile, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed the state ministries responsible for environment and health to begin measures to address residents’ concerns, including the fumigation of the affected river.
The governor also directed the Ilaje Local Government Council to arrange the distribution of potable water by tankers if assessments establish that the river is severely polluted and unsuitable for use.
The state government further ordered the provision of nose masks and other essential health kits to help protect residents from potential health hazards.
The measures followed reports of a strong odour around the crash site and concerns about the river’s importance to the community’s domestic needs and livelihoods.
Investigation Into Crash Continues
The NAF aircraft, an ATR-42 with registration number NAF 931, crashed in Igbokoda on October 5 while reportedly travelling from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos on a routine mission.
The aircraft had 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.
The Air Force has established a 12-member investigation board to determine the circumstances and causes of the accident and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence.
As search and recovery operations continue, residents are awaiting further action to address the reported odour and establish whether the crash has caused environmental contamination.
The NAF said it would work with the relevant authorities to ensure that any identified environmental and public health concerns receive appropriate attention.