NSIB launches investigation into Lagos air mishap as Sanwo-Olu praises first responders

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) is seeking the support of residents especially witnesses to the air mishap that occurred on Oba Akran Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos on Tuesday to provide any relevant information that can aid its investigation.

“The NSIB, hereby, solicits information from the general public in the form of pictures, video, or recording pieces of evidence to assist in conducting a comprehensive investigation”, a statement by Tunji Oketunbi, the agency’s spokesperson said.

The NSIB is the agency charged with the mandate to investigate transportation accidents and serious incidents in Nigeria with the aim of identifying the probable causes and proffering safety recommendations.

“The Bureau can be reached through info@aib.gov.ng and NSIB_Nigeria on its social media platforms. The Bureau can also be called on its emergency line at +234-807-709-0909”, the NSIB statement said.

The single engine airplane with Nationality and Registration Marks 5N-CCQ operated by Air First Hospitality & Tours, crashed on Tuesday afternoon catching fire on impact. Its two occupants survived the crash and are receiving medical care for the injuries sustained because of the accident.

Residents of the area who were initially confused after the plane tumbled quickly rushed to the scene for rescue operation. It was gathered that they helped in rescuing the two crew members operating the test flight.

The residents made the job of emergency responders who also raced to the scene shortly after easy.

Ibrahim Farinloye, the Southwest Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency and Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, the boss of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency both acknowledged the efforts of the residents in the rescue operation especially containing the fire that resulted from the crash.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu who also visited the crash site while the recovery operation was ongoing also praised the residents for giving a hand and rescuing the occupants of the airplane.

“…we are thankful that we got a very quick response both from Lagos State Emergency Service (LASEMA) and all the residents of the neighborhood, especially two very gallant citizens; Oluwafemi and Opeyemi. While everybody was running away, Opeyemi and Oluwafemi were the very first people that looked for water… and they were able to also help to rescue the two passengers that were inside the helicopter”, the governor said.

Emergency responders pulled the carcas of the plane out of the busy road at about 5:30pm and cleared the site.