Concerns over pollution and disease outbreak have prompted the Ondo State Government to take emergency action around the site of the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has ordered the Ministries of Environment and Health to fumigate the river surrounding the crash site, following reports of a strong stench and fears that decomposing remains and aviation fuel may have contaminated water sources.

As part of the response, residents are to receive nose masks and other health kits, while the Ilaje Local Government has been directed to provide water tankers for continuous distribution of potable water should tests confirm that the river is unsafe for domestic use.

The measures follow appeals by the Olu of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, and residents who raised alarm over body parts still floating in the river more than a week after the crash.

They warned that the situation could expose the riverine community to waterborne diseases and other environmental hazards.

The NAF ATR-42 aircraft, travelling from Benin City to Lagos, crashed into a swamp near the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base on October 5, killing all 25 persons on board.

The state government said it is collaborating with federal authorities on the recovery operation and conducting environmental and public health assessments to determine the extent of contamination and the appropriate clean-up measures.

Governor Aiyedatiwa assured the people of Igbokoda that the government would continue to support the recovery efforts while prioritising their safety and wellbeing.