Helicopter Crashes Near Naval Base In Ondo, Occupants Feared Dead

Panic has gripped Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, following the crash of a helicopter in the coastal community on Monday.

The aircraft reportedly came down in a swampy area opposite a naval facility in Igbokoda, with the fate of those on board yet to be officially established.

Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, confirmed the crash, saying the helicopter had been burnt beyond recognition.

Oripelaye said military equipment was recovered from the crash site, but authorities were yet to ascertain the number of people who were aboard the aircraft.

The identity, operator and mission of the helicopter also remained unclear as of the time of filing this report.

Reports from the community said the crash triggered anxiety among residents, with people rushing towards the area as efforts intensified to secure the scene and determine the extent of casualties.

A report by Arise News said the aircraft was suspected to be a military helicopter, but noted that the Nigerian military had yet to officially confirm the identity of the aircraft or the number of personnel on board.

The Ondo State Police Command also had no immediate confirmation of the incident when initial reports emerged, with its spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, saying he would make inquiries.

Igbokoda is a major riverine and commercial community in Ilaje, an oil-producing area where helicopters are commonly used for offshore and oil and gas-related operations.

As of Monday afternoon, authorities had not released an official casualty figure or confirmed whether there were survivors.

Further details are expected from the military, aviation authorities and emergency agencies as investigations and recovery efforts continue.