By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Monday, October 5, 2026, while on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The NAF, in a statement by its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said it had commenced immediate search and rescue operations in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
“The Nigerian Air Force has commenced an immediate Search and Rescue operation following an ATR-42 aircraft accident in Igbokoda Area of Ondo State on 5th October 2026,” the statement said.
The Air Force clarified that the aircraft involved was an ATR-42, not a helicopter as initially reported. It did not disclose the number of people on board or whether there were casualties.
The confirmation followed an earlier SaharaReporters report that residents feared several people dead after an aircraft believed to be a helicopter crashed in the coastal community. A resident said the incident caused panic in Igbokoda.
Ondo State Police Command spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh had said he was unaware of the incident but would make inquiries.
Igbokoda is a riverine community and commercial hub in Ilaje, one of Ondo State’s oil-producing areas, and is also used for aviation operations connected to the oil and gas industry. Further details are expected as search and rescue efforts continue.
