By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) from the wreckage of its ATR-42 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, providing a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the accident.
The recorder, which was confirmed intact by technical teams from the NAF and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), is expected to provide vital information to investigators as they work to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF also recovered part of the aircraft’s Flight Data Recorder (FDR), popularly known as the black box, although efforts are continuing to locate and retrieve its remaining portion.
Other items recovered from the accident site include additional aircraft wreckage, engine components and human remains.
The recovery operations, according to the NAF, have been complicated by the difficult swamp terrain, requiring sustained efforts by technical and recovery teams to locate outstanding aircraft components.
In a statement on Friday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the recovery and investigation processes were ongoing, with emphasis on ensuring that all relevant evidence was properly secured for comprehensive technical examination.
He said the handling of human remains was also receiving attention, with the Directorate of Identification and Classification undertaking the necessary procedures to establish the identities of the victims.
Ejodame added that the Air Force had maintained contact with the victims’ families to provide information and support, while also engaging relevant authorities over environmental concerns raised by the host community.
He appealed for patience and understanding, noting that the recovery and investigation processes required time, professional attention and careful coordination.
According to him, the investigation would not only establish the circumstances surrounding the accident but also identify lessons that could strengthen flight safety and improve the conduct of future air operations.
The NAF assured the public that verified information would be made available as the recovery and investigation progressed.
