The Ondo State Government has ordered emergency measures to protect residents of Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area from potential health risks following the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in the community.
Orange FM had reported that the ATR-42 aircraft, travelling from Benin City to Lagos, crashed into a swamp near the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda on October 5, killing all 25 people on board.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has directed the Ministries of Environment and Health to fumigate the river around the crash site following reports of a foul smell and fears of possible contamination from decomposing human remains and aviation fuel.
The government also plans to distribute nose masks and other health kits to residents, while the Ilaje Local Government has been directed to provide water tankers to supply potable water if tests confirm that the river is unsafe for domestic use.
The measures follow appeals by the Olu of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, and residents over reports of body parts still floating in the river more than a week after the crash.
Residents fear that the situation could expose the riverine community to waterborne diseases and other environmental hazards.
The state government said it was collaborating with relevant federal authorities on recovery operations and conducting environmental and public health assessments to determine the extent of possible contamination and the appropriate clean-up measures.
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the people of Igbokoda that his administration would continue to support recovery efforts while prioritising the health, safety and wellbeing of residents.
