The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau confirmed on Sunday that only three bodies, not five as earlier reported, were recovered from the October 24 helicopter crash near Bonny Finima, Rivers State.
The helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76, was operated by East Wind Aviation and hired by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.
According to Bimbo Oladeji, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, six passengers and two crew members were on board the helicopter when it crashed into the Atlantic Ocean.
She clarified, “Contrary to reports suggesting that five bodies have been recovered, we confirm that only three bodies were retrieved on the day of the incident.”
Oladeji explained that two more bodies were located by divers the next day, October 25, but challenging ocean conditions prevented their retrieval. “Due to strong ocean currents and limited visibility, these bodies could not be retrieved at that time,” she said.
NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. assured that the Bureau, along with government agencies and private partners, is fully committed to locating all missing individuals and recovering key components of the helicopter for investigation.
“Our team is working tirelessly to manage the challenging conditions,” said Badeh. “We remain committed to a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for the families, loved ones, and the nation.”
Oladeji urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, which can interfere with rescue and investigation efforts.
She stated, “The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau remains steadfast in promoting transparency and accountability through its independent investigation process, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria.”
The helicopter was en route from the Nigerian Air Force base in Port Harcourt to an NNPC facility when it crashed into the ocean near Bonny Finima.
Search and recovery efforts are ongoing as authorities continue to locate the remaining bodies and investigate the cause of the crash.
