Panic has gripped Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, following the crash of a helicopter in the coastal community on Monday.
The aircraft reportedly went down in the Igbokoda axis, with early reports suggesting that it crashed in a swampy area opposite a naval facility.
Several people are feared to have died in the incident, although authorities had yet to establish the exact number of people aboard or confirm the number of casualties as of the time of filing this report.
The identity of the helicopter and the organisation operating it also remained unclear.
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed that an aircraft crash occurred in the Igbokoda area. Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said officials were working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Jimoh appealed to residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, assuring the public that credible updates would be provided as more details emerge.
Reports from the area indicate that security and emergency personnel were working to assess the crash site and determine whether there were survivors. Nigerian Navy personnel were also reportedly involved in efforts around the scene.
The crash has caused anxiety across the riverine community, with residents awaiting official information on the aircraft, those on board and the circumstances that led to the accident.
Further details are expected from the police, emergency agencies and aviation authorities as investigations continue.
