By Ghazali Ibrahim
Panic has gripped Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, after a helicopter crashed in the coastal community on Monday morning.
The aircraft reportedly came down in a swampy area opposite the Naval Base in Igbokoda, with the crash site said to have been engulfed by the wreckage of the aircraft.
The Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, confirmed the incident, saying military gear was recovered from the scene.
According to him, the helicopter was burnt to rubble, making it difficult to immediately establish how many people were on board.
“We have confirmed that a helicopter crashed in the area, but we cannot ascertain the number of people that were on board yet. Military gear was found at the scene, but the helicopter had burnt to rubble,” Oripelaye said.
The development has raised fears for the crew, although authorities have not officially confirmed any death or released the identities of those aboard.
Earlier reports had said residents rushed to safety after hearing about the crash, while efforts were launched to reach the swampy crash site and establish the extent of the damage.
The Ondo State Police Command has also confirmed that authorities are working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police spokesman, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, urged residents to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information while details emerge.
The identity of the helicopter, its operator, mission and the number of people aboard remained unclear as of the latest reports.
The crash comes in an area where helicopters are commonly used for movements connected to offshore and oil-related activities because of Ilaje’s coastal location.
Authorities are expected to provide further details as rescue efforts and investigations continue.
