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Tinubu Extends Condolences Following Helicopter Crash Off Port-Harcourt Coast

Written by Jerry Alomatu on October 25, 2024

News Views: 397

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Board and staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), as well as to the families affected by the tragic helicopter crash near Bonny Finima, Port-Harcourt.

In a statement released on Friday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu conveyed his “deepest sympathies” to the bereaved families, standing in solidarity with those grieving.

The president’s message was included in a statement titled, “President Tinubu Commiserates with the NNPC Board and Families of Victims Onboard the Helicopter in Port-Harcourt.” He called for an “intensification of search and rescue operations” to locate any remaining passengers or evidence from the crash involving an East Winds Aviation helicopter registered as 5NBQG.

The helicopter, which was chartered by NNPC Limited, was transporting contract staff to the FPSO—NUIMS ANTAN facility when it went down in the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday.

To facilitate effective rescue operations, Tinubu has urged military personnel engaged in various operations in the region to assist in the search efforts. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and other agencies involved in recovery and investigation.

The president’s directive underscores the government’s commitment to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the crash and providing closure to the affected families. In his message, he fervently prayed for the “eternal rest of the three departed souls” and comfort for their families, reflecting the somber mood following the incident.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed that the helicopter crashed in the Bonny area, noting that there were two crew members and six passengers on board at the time. Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko announced that the marine division, in coordination with other agencies, has initiated a search for the aircraft and its occupants.

Meanwhile, search operations have commenced, with the military, the National Emergency Management Agency, and emergency locators actively involved in the efforts to locate the passengers. The helicopter was carrying employees of the NNPC when it tragically ditched into the ocean, and as of the latest reports, no survivors have been found.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also confirmed the unfortunate incident in a statement released through the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Odutayo Oluseyi.