A military helicopter has crashed in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, sparking concern and triggering search and rescue efforts.
The aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, reportedly crashed in a swampy area near the Naval Base in Igbokoda on Monday, October 5, 2026.
Initial reports indicated that the aircraft had been travelling from Benin towards Lagos before disappearing from radar. The incident caused panic among residents of the coastal community as emergency and security personnel moved to locate the wreckage and determine the condition of those on board.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, later disclosed that preliminary information indicated that 32 people were aboard the aircraft, comprising 25 passengers and seven crew members.
According to Keyamo, attempts by air traffic controllers to establish communication with the aircraft were unsuccessful after it disappeared from radar. The wreckage has since been located, with search and rescue operations ongoing.
The Ondo State Police Command also confirmed the aircraft crash in the Igbokoda axis of Ilaje Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said investigations were underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. He urged residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information while authorities work to establish the facts.
Earlier reports from the scene said the helicopter had crashed in a swampy area close to the naval facility, making access to the location difficult.
The exact number of casualties had not been officially confirmed at the time of the initial reports, despite claims that several people may have died in the crash. Authorities have continued efforts to determine the condition of everyone on board.
The cause of the crash also remains unknown, with relevant authorities expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Igbokoda is a major coastal and oil-producing community in Ondo State, where helicopters are frequently used for oil and gas-related logistics and other operations.
As search and rescue efforts continue, aviation and security authorities are expected to provide further information on the identities of those aboard the aircraft, casualties and the circumstances that led to the crash.
This is a developing story, and further details are expected as authorities conclude their search and rescue operations.
