Port Harcourt helicopter crash: NSIB clarifies misinformation on recovery operations
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau NSIB
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has addressed recent inaccuracies regarding the recovery efforts for the Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, which ditched into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima on Thursday, October 24, 2024.
The helicopter was carrying eight individuals at the time of the incident.
Contrary to claims that five bodies had been recovered, NSIB in a statement on Sunday by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Bimbo Oladeji, confirmed that only three bodies were retrieved on the day of the crash, clarifying that two additional bodies were located on Friday, October 25, but could not be recovered due to challenging ocean conditions.
The NSIB emphasised that locating all individuals remains a top priority for the search and recovery team.
The statement reads, “The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) wishes to correct
recent misinformation concerning the ongoing recovery operations for the Sikorsky SR76 helicopter, registration 5N BQG, operated by Eastwind Aviation, which ditched into the Atlantic Ocean near Bonny Finima on Thursday, October 24, 2024.
“Contrary to reports suggesting that five bodies have been recovered, we confirm that only three bodies were retrieved on the day of the incident. Efforts to locate the remaining individuals continued the following day – October 25, 2024, and two additional bodies were located by divers, but due to strong ocean currents and limited visibility, these bodies could not be retrieved at that time.
“The recovery of the remaining persons onboard remains a top priority for the amalgamated search, rescue and recovery team.
The NSIB is working to deploy a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to the site, equipped with advanced sensors and cameras to enhance visibility and precision in this deep-water environment.
“This ROV will facilitate detailed inspection, enable targeted retrieval operations, and assist in gathering vital evidence that will support our investigation into the incident.”
However, the Director General of NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh, reiterated the Bureau’s commitment to transparency and thorough investigation, urging the public to avoid speculation that could hinder recovery efforts, stressing that updates will be provided as verified information becomes available.
“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. We remain committed to a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for the families, loved ones, and the nation,” he said.
