NSIB Recovers Fifth Body From Port Harcourt Helicopter Crash.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has confirmed the recovery of a fifth body from the October 24 helicopter crash in the Atlantic Ocean near Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The update was issued on Wednesday in a statement from Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance.
The helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5N BQG, was operated by Eastwind Aviation. Since the incident, the NSIB has conducted a coordinated recovery operation, retrieving five bodies to date. The fifth body, found on Wednesday, required specialised handling due to its decomposed state before it was transported to the morgue.
Captain Alex Badeh, Director-General of NSIB, stated that the bureau is working with both national and international partners to ensure a thorough recovery and investigation process. He emphasised that the NSIB is dedicated to promoting transportation safety across Nigeria.
“The recovery operation presents unique challenges due to the environmental conditions, but our team and partners are dedicated to bringing this mission to completion with utmost professionalism and care,” said Badeh. He acknowledged the support from all parties involved, including the Nigerian Navy, in ensuring a respectful and coordinated recovery process.
The NSIB has reaffirmed its commitment to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the accident, with Badeh adding, “Our primary objective remains to uncover information that will fully explain the circumstances of this accident, and our thoughts continue to be with the families affected.”
The investigation remains ongoing as the NSIB and its partners work diligently to bring clarity and closure to those impacted by this tragic incident.
