A suspected military helicopter reportedly crashes in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The helicopter reportedly crashed on Monday, October 5, in swampy terrain opposite the Naval Base in the coastal community. The incident has raised concerns among residents as authorities work to determine what happened.
Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, confirmed the crash during a telephone conversation with journalists. He said military gear was found at the crash site, TVC reports. 
Helicopter Burns at Crash Site
According to Oripelaye, the helicopter crash that happened in Ondo burnt beyond recognition after the crash. He also said authorities found military gear at the scene. But it could not be ascertained the number of personnel were on board as the chopper had burnt to rubble.
“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.
Meanwhile, reports from the area identified the crash site as a swamp opposite the naval facility.
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Aircraft Identity and Casualties Remain Unclear
Authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the helicopter or the number of personnel aboard. Similarly, officials have yet to establish the aircraft’s origin, destination or purpose of the flight.
Meanwhile, early reports have given conflicting accounts of possible casualties. Some reports said personnel aboard the helicopter were feared dead. However, Oripelaye said authorities could not yet establish how many people were on board.
Authorities are now expected to secure the crash site and examine the wreckage as they gather more information.
Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development Probe Crash
The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has confirmed the crash of a military aircraft near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The ministry said air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, at about 9:13 a.m. on Monday. The aircraft was travelling from Benin to Lagos.
According to the ministry, “all efforts to raise the aircraft on radio proved abortive” before authorities confirmed the crash. It added that the wreckage had been located, while search and rescue operations were underway.
“Preliminary information suggests that there were 25 passengers and seven crew members on board,” the statement said.
The ministry also stressed that military aircraft fall outside its regulatory control. However, the minister said he had spoken with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
He pledged the ministry’s “total cooperation and assistance” in the ongoing search and rescue operation.
Further details will be released as they become available.
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