Several people are feared dead following the crash of a military aircraft in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Monday.
The aircraft reportedly crashed in a swampy area of the coastal community, with the incident causing panic among residents.
Initial reports indicated that the aircraft went down in a difficult-to-access area within the creek. Police and military personnel were subsequently deployed to the scene as part of ongoing search and rescue efforts.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the crash, saying details of the incident were still emerging.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, urged residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information while authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, also said efforts to contact the aircraft by radio were unsuccessful before its wreckage was located. Preliminary information indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board.
Authorities have yet to provide an official casualty figure, while investigations and rescue operations remain ongoing.
