The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it acknowledged the concerns expressed by residents of Igbokoda, Ondo State, particularly reports of an offensive odour and fears of possible environmental impact following the aircraft accident.
In a statement by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in Abuja on Thursday, the Force said it noted the discomfort, anxiety, and uncertainty such circumstances may cause and assured the affected community that their concerns are being taken seriously.
The development followed complaints from Igbokoda residents about the strong stench emanating from the river where the aircraft crashed last week.
The NAF, however, noted that while search and recovery operations remain ongoing, it would continue to work in coordination with relevant partner agencies to ensure the safe and orderly recovery of the wreckage.
Upon completion of the recovery operation, the NAF said it will engage with the appropriate environmental and public health authorities and other relevant agencies to assess the situation and coordinate appropriate action to address any identified environmental concerns.
“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 added.
Following complaints by residents of the community, the Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said he had directed the ministries of environment and health to begin extensive fumigation of the river.
The directive, Aiyedatiwa noted, aims to prevent a possible outbreak of diseases, as the river is a major source of livelihood for residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities.
The governor also said he had directed the authorities of Ilaje Local Government to arrange water tankers for the continuous distribution of potable water to residents if the river is found to be severely polluted and unsuitable for use.
The arrangement, according to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, is to remain in place pending a lasting intervention to address the pollution.
In addition, Governor Aiyedatiwa directed the ministries to provide nose masks and other essential health kits to residents to protect them from potential health hazards.
The governor reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing all necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force in its ongoing evacuation efforts, as well as ensuring the welfare and safety of residents of the affected community.
The NAF ATR-42 aircraft (NAF 931) crashed on October 5, 2026, with 25 people, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.
The aircraft was said to be on a routine mission from Benin City in Edo State to Lagos when the accident occurred.
Although search-and-rescue procedures were immediately activated by relevant authorities, the passengers and crew have yet to be located.
The Nigerian Air Force on Tuesday set up a 12-member board to investigate the crash.
The Service said that the board would establish the circumstances and causes of the crash and recommend measures to prevent similar incidents.
