A suspected military helicopter crashed on Monday morning in the swampy terrain opposite the Naval Base in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, leaving personnel on board feared dead.
The aircraft came down in the coastal community, sparking panic among residents who quickly gathered around the crash site as emergency responders and security personnel moved in to secure the area.
Ilaje Local Government Chairman Maurice Oripelaye confirmed the incident in a telephone interview, stating that the helicopter had been completely destroyed by fire. “We have confirmed that a helicopter crashed in the area, but we cannot ascertain the number of people that were on board yet. Military gear was found at the scene, but the helicopter had burnt to rubble,” he said.
As of the time of this report, the identity of the aircraft, its origin, destination, and the exact number of people on board remain unconfirmed. No official statement has been issued by the military or other relevant authorities.
Sources indicated that recovery and assessment efforts were ongoing at the swampy crash site. Further details are expected as investigations continue.
