NAF RECOVERS COCKPIT VOICE RECORDER FROM CRASHED ATR-42 AIRCRAFT IN ONDO

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Agency Report

The Nigerian Air Force has recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) from the wreckage of the ATR-42 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.

Ejodame said technical teams from the NAF and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau had confirmed that the CVR was intact.

He added that part of the Flight Data Recorder (FDR), commonly referred to as the black box, had also been recovered, while efforts continued to locate and retrieve the remaining portion.

The Air Force spokesman said additional aircraft wreckage, engine components and human remains had also been recovered.

“Operations are ongoing in challenging swamp terrain, with teams working to retrieve outstanding components and facilitate necessary technical examinations.

“Investigation is being conducted with due diligence to ensure comprehensive, evidence-based findings,” he said.

Ejodame said the recovery process also involved careful handling of human remains, with the Directorate of Identification and Classification undertaking the necessary procedures to ensure proper identification.

He added that the NAF had maintained contact with the families of the victims, acknowledging their need for information and support.

According to him, engagements with relevant authorities over environmental concerns raised by the host community also remain part of the broader response.

“While appreciating the public’s concern and interest, NAF appeals for continued patience and understanding as these critical processes require time, careful coordination and professional attention.

“The ultimate objective is not only to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash, but also to draw necessary lessons to strengthen flight safety, enhance ongoing airpower operations and further safeguard the lives of personnel and citizens,” he said.

The PUNCH reported on October 5, 2026, that the NAF ATR-42 aircraft, with registration number NAF 931, crashed in a swampy area near Igbokoda in the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State while on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos.

All 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers, died in the accident.

Air traffic controllers reportedly lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:13 a.m.

President Bola Tinubu subsequently declared three days of national mourning, while recovery operations continued in the difficult swamp terrain.

NAN