The Nigerian Air Force aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, has prompted the Olu of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, to write to President Bola Tinubu demanding a thorough investigation into the incident’s environmental and public‑health implications.
In a petition submitted on behalf of the traditional council and residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities, the monarch called for the recovery of the wreckage and any outstanding human remains, as well as a clean‑up of areas confirmed to have been contaminated. “Our people should not be left to speculate about the safety of their waters or bear the consequences of any damage arising from an incident involving a Federal Government aircraft,” he said.
Oba Odidiomo warned that aviation fuel, lubricants and other hazardous substances could have leaked from the crashed aircraft, posing risks to the creeks, rivers and wetlands that support fishing, fish processing and trading in the region. He urged the federal government to deploy environmental experts to test water and sediment samples, assess potential effects on aquatic life and provide clear guidance on the use of affected waters and the consumption of fish.
Key requests in the petition include:
- Scientific investigation and laboratory analysis of water and sediment from the crash site and surrounding areas.
- Assessment of public‑health risks and provision of medical treatment for residents with suspected exposure.
- Recovery of any remaining wreckage and human remains, handled with urgency and dignity.
- Economic impact assessment on fishing and water‑dependent businesses, with a process for compensation and interim relief.
- Coordinated action by the Nigerian Air Force, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Environment, NESREA, NEMA, Ondo State Emergency Management Agency, health authorities and Ilaje Local Government.
- Appointment of a liaison officer to facilitate communication between government agencies and affected communities.
The petition, copied to the Chief of Air Staff, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of Environment, the Director‑General of NESREA, the Director‑General of NEMA, the Ondo State Governor, the Ondo State Commissioner for Environment, the Director‑General of the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency and the Chairman of Ilaje Local Government, requests a formal acknowledgement, regular updates on recovery operations, a clear timetable for investigations and interventions, and a substantive written response within 30 days.
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>