The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed an ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, and activated an immediate search and rescue operation for those who may have been involved in the accident.
The incident occurred on Monday, October 5, 2026, while the aircraft was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. The NAF said the rescue operation was being conducted in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
Key Highlights
- NAF confirms an aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
- The aircraft involved was identified by the NAF as an ATR-42.
- The aircraft was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
- NAF has activated an immediate search and rescue operation.
- The number of people aboard and their condition have not been officially disclosed.
- The cause of the crash has not been established.
NAF Confirms Aircraft Crash in Ondo
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the accident in a statement issued on Monday.
Ejodame said the Nigerian Air Force had commenced an immediate search and rescue operation following the ATR-42 aircraft accident in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
According to the NAF, the aircraft was carrying out a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. The Air Force said its search and rescue operation was being conducted in collaboration with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
Search and Rescue Operation Underway
Following confirmation of the crash, emergency responders and security agencies were mobilised as efforts continued to locate the aircraft and determine the condition of those who may have been on board.
The difficult terrain around Igbokoda, a coastal community in Ilaje Local Government Area, could present challenges for responders attempting to reach the crash location. The NAF said further details would be communicated as the search and rescue operation progresses.
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Number of People on Board Remains Unknown
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had not publicly disclosed the number of people aboard the aircraft or their identities. There was also no official confirmation of fatalities or survivors.
Reports from the area had earlier indicated that the aircraft went down in the Igbokoda axis, but details surrounding the extent of the accident remained limited. Authorities are expected to provide more information once rescue teams complete their initial assessment.
Ondo Police Confirm Aircraft Crash
The Ondo State Police Command has also confirmed the reported aircraft crash in the Igbokoda axis of Ilaje Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said details surrounding the incident were still emerging as efforts continued to establish the full circumstances of the crash. The police urged residents of Igbokoda and adjoining communities to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information.
Cause of Ondo Aircraft Crash Yet to Be Established
The cause of the accident has not been established. Aviation authorities and investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the aircraft’s flight details, operational condition and other relevant factors.
At this stage, the cause should not be presumed until the appropriate authorities release their findings. The immediate priority remains the search and rescue operation and establishing the fate of everyone who may have been aboard the aircraft.
The Nigerian Air Force has assured the public that further details would be communicated as the search and rescue operation progresses. For updates as the story develops, follow us on X.
