Four Passengers Battle For Life As Plane Crashes In Imo
Four individuals have been hospitalized following a crash involving a Skypower Express Cessna 172 aircraft at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri, Imo State.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the incident via a statement issued on Tuesday, signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji.
The aircraft, registered as 5N-ASR, was en route from Kaduna International Airport to Port Harcourt International Airport when the crew declared an in-flight emergency and diverted to Owerri.
Sources informed reporters that the crash transpired around 8:00 pm during the aircraft’s approach to Runway 17, where it crash-landed and somersaulted on the tarmac.
NSIB officials reported that all four individuals onboard survived the accident, and no fatalities have been recorded.
The victims were promptly evacuated to a nearby hospital, although their medical condition has not been independently confirmed.
An airport staff member, who requested anonymity, stated that the victims appeared to have been transported to the hospital, but she was unable to provide further details regarding their condition.
The bureau noted that airport emergency services responded swiftly, effectively containing the incident. There was no post-crash fire, and other flight operations at the airport proceeded without disruption.
Efforts are currently underway to recover and remove the damaged aircraft from the runway to facilitate a thorough examination of the wreckage, according to the NSIB.
Captain Alex Badeh Jr, NSIB Director-General, stated that the bureau has activated its investigation protocols. He expressed relief that there were no fatalities and assured that all necessary measures are being taken to secure the crash site.
“The NSIB is coordinating with relevant authorities, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” Captain Badeh remarked, urging stakeholders to await official findings.
