Igbokoda Residents Demand Action After NAF Crash Odor

Residents of Igbokoda in Ilaje LGA, Ondo State, are expressing health concerns due to a foul odor from the site of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crash that occurred on October 5. The aircraft was on a mission from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed into a swamp, resulting in 25 fatalities.

The crash site remains submerged, and recovery operations have not yet retrieved the bodies, leading to fears of environmental pollution and health risks. The traditional ruler, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, reported that decomposing human remains are floating in the river, contributing to the unbearable stench.

He also noted suspected fuel spillage affecting local water sources. Residents, including Omogbemi Damilola and Oroyo Levy, have called for urgent government intervention to address the situation.

In response, Ondo State Commissioner for Environment, Tob Loko, stated that the state government is working with the Federal Government to assess the environmental impact and determine decontamination measures.