Residents of Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State have raised concerns over possible environmental contamination following the Ondo military plane crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft that claimed 25 lives.
According to The PUNCH, the aircraft crashed on October 5, leaving wreckage and victims’ remains submerged in a river. The Ondo military plane crash has caused great distress to the local community.
Nine days after the accident, recovery operations were continuing, while residents complained about an offensive odour around the crash site.
The community also expressed concern that decomposing remains and possible aviation fuel contamination could affect its water supply.
Ondo monarch demands urgent intervention
The traditional ruler of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, appealed to federal and state authorities to accelerate the recovery process.
“The odour is extremely offensive,” the monarch said.
He claimed that human remains were visible in parts of the river, raising fears of contamination after the recent Ondo military plane crash.
The monarch also warned that some residents depended on water sources potentially affected by the crash.
A community leader, Segun Omogbemi, supported the concerns, explaining that residents had noticed the worsening odour. Clearly, the Ondo military plane crash continues to impact people living in Igbokoda.
Ondo State Commissioner for Environment, Tob Loko, confirmed that officials were assessing the environmental and public health implications of the accident.
Air Force establishes crash investigation board
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force announced the establishment of a 12-member board to investigate the crash.
Its spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the board would examine operational, technical and other factors that may have contributed to the accident.
The investigation involves aviation specialists and representatives of relevant regulatory agencies.
The Air Force also said search and recovery operations remained a priority.
Separately, the Senate called for an audit of military aircraft and maintenance funding, while the House of Representatives demanded an independent investigation.
Authorities have not determined the cause of the crash or confirmed the extent of any environmental contamination.
The affected community continues to await the recovery of victims and measures to protect its water supply.
