The Ondo State Government has mobilised emergency and security agencies to support search and rescue efforts following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa directed the State Emergency Management Agency, Ministry of Health and relevant security agencies to provide personnel and logistical support for the operation at the crash site.
The aircraft, an ATR-42 with tail number NGR 931, reportedly crashed in a swampy area opposite the Naval Base in Igbokoda in the early hours of Monday, October 5, 2026.
According to the Nigerian Air Force Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the incident occurred.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board the aircraft.
Following the incident, Aiyedatiwa said he had contacted the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force, the Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, and security agencies involved in the response.
The governor also ordered authorities to secure and cordon off the crash site to allow rescue teams to operate without interference.
He appealed to residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders, while warning against circulating unverified information about the incident.
Aiyedatiwa expressed sympathy to the Chief of Air Staff, the Nigerian Air Force and the families of those on board the aircraft.
He said the state government would continue to monitor the rescue operation and provide updates based on information released by the Nigerian Air Force, while expressing hope for the safety of those involved.
