Panic ensued in the Oba Akran Ikeja area of Lagos State as yet to be identified helicopter crashed into a building, igniting a massive fire.
The incident happened adjacent AP Filling Station, and United Bank For Africa, Oba Akran.
Eyewitnesses reported that the crash happened at approximately 3:30 PM, causing immediate concern for the safety of those involved.
As of now, there is no confirmation regarding the fate of the helicopter pilots, and it remains uncertain if there are other casualties.
Men of the Lagos Fire and Rescue Service are being awaited for further emergency operation to salvage the situation.
NSIB commences Investigation
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) said it has commenced investigation into an accident involving a Jabiru J430, a light single airplane with nationality and registration Marks 5N-CCQ operated by Air First Hospitality & Tours.
The aircraft was on a test flight within Lagos with two passengers onboard before it crashed around Oba Akran area of Lagos State with no fatalities.
The crash occurred around 3pm on Tuesday.
The aircraft reportedly caught fire on impact but the spread was contained by the rainfall at the time of impact.
The Bureau in a statement signed by Tunji Oketunbi on behalf of the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection said the two souls on board have been taken to the hospital.
The Bureau however solicited information from the general public in form of pictures, video, or recording evidence to assist in conducting a comprehensive investigation.
The Bureau said it can be reached through info@aib.gov.ng, h NSIB_Nigeria on its social media platforms, and its emergency line +234-807-709-0909.
The immediate past Minister of Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika who reacted to the incident expressed hope that the outcome of the investigation will help prevent future occurrences.
Sirika who reacted via his official Twitter handle; @hadisirika stated: “Occupants of helicopter 5N CCQ are reported to be stable, thank God. May God continue to keep us safe, may the outcome of investigation help to prevent future occurrence. In aircraft accidents, public cooperation is required to secure the site, for integrity of investigation.”
Also reacting, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) via its Twitter handle @ nemanigeria posted: “Fixed wing Aircraft Reg 5NCCQ Airfirst Hospitality and Tour Ltd crashed near Lagos Airport. Following the incident, NEMA, LASEMA, Fire Service, security Agencies and other stakeholders carried out search and rescue operation. Two crew members and two passengers rescued.”
Watch the moment the aircraft crash landed here
