Yesterday at approximately 08:21 p.m., a HS 125 aircraft with the nationality and registration marks 5N-AMM, operated by Flint Aero, encountered a frightening incident at the Ibadan, Oyo State airport, narrowly avoiding a tragic fate. On board were the Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, along with 12 other passengers and flight crew.
The aircraft, which had departed from Abuja at 6:41 p.m., was en route to Ibadan when the unfortunate event occurred. Despite the distressing situation, there were no fatalities, although the aircraft sustained significant damage.
Reports indicated that the pilot had received clearance for an RNAV approach to Runway 22 of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan. However, the plane skidded off the runway during the landing process.
Thanks to quick and efficient action, all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated. An aide to the Minister shared in a conversation that Mr. Adelabu remained composed and in good spirits following the incident. He expressed the Minister’s attitude towards the occurrence, stating, “It was actually a minor thing, and that is how he has taken it. The Minister was particularly not worried by the incident because it did not involve any of the passengers leaving with any injury. Everyone on board the aircraft when the incident happened actually alighted without any problem, and we have no cause to worry.”
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has launched an investigation into the accident. James Odaudu, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NSIB, confirmed the incident and emphasized that the agency had initiated an investigation. Odaudu highlighted that the aircraft, carrying 10 passengers and three crew members, was on its way to Ibadan from Abuja.
“The aircraft, on final approach to landing on Runway 22, Ibadan Airport, crashed short of the runway,” said Odaudu. “There was no fatality as all passengers and crew were safely evacuated.”
As the investigative body, NSIB encouraged the public to assist by providing any relevant video clips or information that could aid in the investigation. They also requested the public and press to respect the privacy of those involved and to refrain from making assumptions about the incident until an official report is released. The Bureau assured that a preliminary report would be issued as soon as possible.
