Rivers helicopter crash: PANDEF condole victims’ families

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by National Chairman Amb. Godknows Igali, has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the eight victims who perished in the Eastwind Aviation helicopter crash into Bonny River, Rivers State.

The incident occurred on Thursday while the helicopter was en route from Port Harcourt Military Base to the FPSO Nuimantan Oil Rig.

In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Christopher Ominimini, PANDEF expressed sorrow for the families affected and the Federal Government, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Rivers State government.

The forum described the loss of the oil workers who were integral to the industry as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension.”

PANDEF emphasised the need for a thorough investigation into the crash to determine its causes and urged relevant agencies to implement measures to prevent future incidents.

The organisation offered prayers for the deceased and sought comfort for their grieving families during this difficult time.

“PANDEF notes that it was a dark day for the Rivers State, the Federal Government, especially the Aviation sector, where energetic persons who were oil workers and contract staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, died in the process.

“PANDEF mourned the oil workers, describing their passing as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension”.