No survivor found yet, Aiyedatiwa speaks on Ondo air crash

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has reported that no survivors have been found following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Ilaje Local Government Area. Aiyedatiwa made this announcement during an interview on Monday, stating that search efforts by locals, security personnel, emergency responders, and the Amotekun Corps had been unsuccessful in finding any survivors.

The news of the crash reached the governor around 10:30 am after the local government chairman informed him. According to Aiyedatiwa, residents across the river from the Nigerian Navy base in Igbokoda had heard a loud sound and witnessed the aircraft crash into a swampy area. The Nigerian Navy initially stayed back to assess the situation before joining the search.

No signs of fire or explosion were observed, leading them to join the rescue mission. Officials from the local emergency management agency also participated in the search. Although parts of the aircraft, including wings, identification cards, and uniforms, were found, no human remains were discovered, confirming the aircraft belonged to the military.

Aiyedatiwa described the incident as a painful development, particularly in his home state and local government. The Nigerian Air Force had earlier confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft with tail number NGR 931 crashed during a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development reported that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board the aircraft. Search and rescue efforts continue.