AKURE — Multiple casualties are feared following an aircraft crash that occurred on Monday, October 5, 2026, in a swampy axis near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The incident, which took place around 11:00 AM amidst heavy rainfall, sparked widespread panic across the coastal community as residents and emergency responders rushed toward the scene.
Early reports indicate that the aircraft went down in a difficult, swampy terrain directly opposite military facilities, with wreckage reportedly burnt beyond recognition upon impact.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, disclosed that military equipment was recovered near the crash site, though official casualty figures and the total number of personnel on board could not be immediately confirmed.
Spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the crash and stated that joint security teams have been dispatched to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The Command urges members of the public, particularly residents of Igbokoda and adjoining communities, to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information while operational assessments continue,” Abayomi stated.
Concurrently, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) announced the activation of an immediate Search and Rescue (SAR) mission in coordination with local emergency response agencies.
Air Force Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed that military SAR teams are currently combing the riverine terrain to locate survivors and secure the perimeter.
Igbokoda, a major oil-producing riverine hub in Ondo State, witnesses regular rotary-wing and light aircraft traffic for maritime security patrols and oil facility logistics.
Further official updates regarding the passenger manifest, flight plan, and preliminary operational findings are expected as rescue teams clear the crash zone.
