Eight Feared Dead in Helicopter Crash in Rivers State

This incident is the latest in a series of aviation accidents in Nigeria’s oil-producing regions, heightening concerns about safety protocols and the management of helicopter operations in the country’s offshore oil facilities.Local officials and aviation safety agencies are anticipated to initiate a thorough investigation to uncover the reasons behind the tragic helicopter crash in Rivers State.

Reports indicate that the victims were on duty at the OML 123 oil field when their helicopter crashed into the Atlantic Ocean on Tuesday morning.The crash occurred at approximately 11:40 a.m. while the workers were stationed at the Mimbo platform and the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel.

According to sources, the helicopter, which was owned by Eastwind Aviation, suddenly lost control before plunging into the ocean.A source close to the matter shared alarming details, stating, “There were six personnel and two crew members aboard the helicopter. So far, three bodies have been recovered.

Search and rescue efforts are ongoing.”Authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of casualties, but concerns are growing that all passengers aboard the helicopter may have lost their lives.A source, cited by The Nation, mentioned that rescue operations continue, as search teams are combing the crash site for survivors and remaining bodies.

This accident has further intensified worries about the frequency of aviation incidents in Nigeria’s oil-rich areas, calling into question the effectiveness of safety measures for helicopter flights in offshore oil fields.

Authorities and aviation safety bodies are expected to conduct an official investigation to determine the cause of this tragic event.