….Water levels drop as operation enters 14th day

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified recovery operations at the site of its crashed ATR 42-500 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as efforts to drain the remaining water and stabilise the site entered the 14th day on Monday.

The Air Force said continuous pumping had significantly reduced the water level at the site, while personnel continued working to remove most of the remaining water and reinforce the embankment to prevent collapse.

The development was disclosed in a statement signed by Ehimen Ejodame, an Air Commodore and Director of Public Relations and Information at the NAF Headquarters.

According to the statement, the recovery team is sustaining dewatering operations, with progress dependent on prevailing conditions at the site.

The NAF said sandbags were being used to reinforce the embankment and maintain its stability as the team worked to drain the area.

It described the exercise as a complex operation requiring sustained engineering interventions and dewatering efforts under challenging conditions.

The Service commended the recovery personnel and partner agencies for their commitment, singling out Hitech Construction Company for its invaluable support to the ongoing operation.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, praised the recovery team for its resilience and professionalism, reaffirming the NAF’s determination to complete the operation safely and methodically.

He also reiterated the Service’s commitment to supporting the ongoing aircraft accident investigation.

The Air Force expressed sympathy with the bereaved families, acknowledging the pain and anguish associated with the incident.
It assured that recovery efforts would continue, alongside the provision of timely and verified updates as the operation progresses.

The NAF also appreciated the Igbokoda community and other stakeholders for their patience, cooperation and continued support throughout the recovery exercise.