Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed that only three bodies have been recovered so far from the helicopter crash site in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, despite earlier media reports suggesting five.
The crash involved a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter operated by East Wind Aviation and hired by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, which went down in the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima off Calabar’s coast on October 24.
The aircraft was carrying six passengers and two crew members.
In an update on Sunday, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, clarified: “Contrary to reports suggesting that five bodies have been recovered, we confirm that only three bodies were retrieved on the day of the incident.”
Oladeji added that while two additional bodies were located on October 25, strong ocean currents and limited visibility prevented their retrieval.
“The recovery of the remaining persons onboard remains a top priority for the amalgamated search, rescue and recovery team,” she added.
NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. reaffirmed the bureau’s dedication to the recovery operation, saying, “The NSIB, alongside our partners, is fully committed to locating and recovering all individuals and critical components from this unfortunate accident. Our team is working tirelessly to manage the challenging conditions.”
He added that the NSIB would ensure a thorough investigation, “to provide clear answers for the families, loved ones, and the nation.”
The NSIB is coordinating the search with government agencies and private partners, utilising equipment for underwater search and recovery. Oladeji urged the public to avoid speculation, which she noted could hinder the investigation.
“Updates on the progress of recovery operations and investigative findings will be provided as soon as verified information becomes available. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau remains steadfast in promoting transparency and accountability through its independent investigation process, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing transportation safety in Nigeria.”
The helicopter was en route from the Nigerian Air Force base in Port Harcourt to NNPC’s offshore production facility when it crashed.