The Nigerian Air Force says recovery operations are ongoing at the Igbokoda crash site of NAF ATR 42-500 aircraft NAF 931, as residents complain of offensive odour and fears of contamination more than a week after the October 5 crash that killed 25 persons.
In a statement Thursday, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force’s Director of Public Relations and Information, said the service was aware of residents’ concerns and recognized the “discomfort, anxiety and uncertainty” caused by the incident.
Search-and-recovery operations remain underway, with the Air Force coordinating with partner agencies to ensure the safe and orderly recovery of the wreckage, Ejodame said.
Once recovery is complete, the force plans to bring in appropriate environmental and public-health authorities to assess the site and coordinate any remedial measures.
The pledge comes after residents raised alarms about a reported foul smell and the potential environmental consequences of the crash.
The Air Force reiterated its commitment to residents’ well-being and to engaging stakeholders to protect public health, safety and the environment.
