Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has announced the recovery of another body from last Thursday’s helicopter crash in the Atlantic Ocean. This update comes just seven hours after the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) debunked earlier reports of two bodies being found. However, in a conflicting report, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) stated that no additional bodies were found beyond the initial three recovered.
The NSIB informed Mr. Keyamo on Sunday of the recovery of one more lifeless body, identified as a victim of the Eastwind Aviation helicopter crash. The body was identified by a distinct T-shirt, verified with photographic evidence as belonging to the fourth victim. The helicopter, operated by Eastwind Aviation, crashed with eight people onboard, including two crew members and six officials from the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited.
Initially, three bodies were recovered on the day of the crash. With this new discovery, the total number of recovered bodies now stands at four, contrary to the NNPCL’s statement. The NSIB has arranged with Eastwind Aviation to deploy an air ambulance for the body’s transport on Monday.
NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said in a statement that intensified search and rescue operations for the remaining bodies are still ongoing, alongside relevant authorities. “Once again, our hearts and prayers are with family members of this unfortunate incident,” Mr. Soneye added.
NSIB Director General, Capt. Alex Badeh, praised the joint search, rescue, and recovery team, as well as international partners, for their collaborative efforts. “We appreciate the coordinated support of our national and international partners in this challenging environment. Our thoughts remain with the families of those affected, and we remain committed to gathering vital information to provide clarity and closure.”
The NSIB assured the public of its dedication to transparency in the ongoing investigation and furthering transportation safety in Nigeria.
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