Amanze Chinonye
Nigeria’s Air Force said on Thursday it would work with environmental and public health authorities to assess possible environmental impacts of a military aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, following residents’ complaints about a persistent foul smell near the crash site, Prime Business Africa reports.
Residents have raised concerns about decomposing human remains and suspected aviation-fuel contamination in the swamp where the aircraft crashed on October 5.
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Search and recovery operations are ongoing, the Nigerian Air Force said in a statement. It added that it would engage the relevant authorities after the wreckage recovery was completed to assess the situation and coordinate appropriate action on any environmental concerns identified.
“The NAF acknowledges the concerns expressed by residents of Igbokoda, particularly reports of an offensive odour and fears of possible environmental impact following the aircraft accident,” said Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force’s director of public relations and information.
The Olu of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, has described the smell as unbearable and called for the recovery of remaining human remains. He also expressed concern about possible fuel pollution, saying traces of fuel were visible on the river some distance from the crash site.
The Ondo State Government has ordered the fumigation of the affected river and the distribution of nose masks and other health kits to residents, Commissioner for Information and Orientation Idowu Ajanaku said on Wednesday.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa also directed the Ilaje Local Government Area to arrange water tankers to supply potable water if assessments establish that the river is severely polluted and unsuitable for use, the state government said. The proposed supply arrangement would remain in place pending a lasting response to any confirmed contamination.
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The aircraft, an ATR-42 operated by the Nigerian Air Force and identified as NAF 931, crashed near Igbokoda on October 5 while travelling from Benin City to Lagos. All 25 people aboard 20 passengers and five crew members died, the Air Force said.
The military has established an investigation board to examine the circumstances of the crash.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
