NAF lowers water level at Ondo crash site as recovery enters 14th day

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has significantly reduced the water level at the site of its crashed ATR 42-500 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as recovery operations entered their 14th day.

The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed in a swampy mangrove area in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, on October 5, 2026.

In a statement on Monday, the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said continuous pumping had lowered the water level, allowing the recovery team to work towards removing most of the remaining water, subject to prevailing conditions.

The Air Force said personnel were also reinforcing the embankment with sandbags to prevent collapse and maintain stability as the dewatering operation continued.

It described the exercise as a complex operation requiring sustained engineering work under challenging environmental conditions.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the recovery team for its resilience and professionalism. The NAF also acknowledged the support of partner agencies and Hitech Construction Company.

The recovery exercise is being conducted alongside an investigation into the cause of the crash.

The accident claimed the lives of those on board. The NAF and other reports said the aircraft was carrying 25 people, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.

The operation has been complicated by the waterlogged terrain at the crash site. Residents of Igbokoda have also raised concerns about a persistent offensive odour and the possibility of contamination affecting local water sources.

The NAF expressed sympathy with the families of those who died and thanked the Igbokoda community and other stakeholders for their patience and cooperation.

The service said it would continue recovery efforts and provide updates as the operation progresses.