Osinbajo: AIB begins investigation into crash

The Accident Investigation Bureau, AIB, has commenced investigation into last Saturday’s helicopter crash involving the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Oosinbajo, and members of his entourage in Kabba, Kogi State.

This was disclosed by Punch newspaper which reported that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, had officially informed the AIB to investigate the incident.

The paper quoted the General Manager, Public Relations, AIB, Mr Tunji Oketunbi, as having confirmed to its correspondent, on Sunday, that preliminary investigation had commenced.

“Investigation is ongoing, we have deployed safety investigators to the site for onsite investigation and they have carried out the process as they are trained to do,” Oketunbi was quoted as saying.

“We are interviewing the crew and all the relevant personnel. We will also carry out other investigations as required.

“The preliminary report will be published as soon as possible in line with Annex 13 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation.”

Similarly, the paper also reported that the NCAA confirmed, also on Sunday, that investigation had begun into the crash. Mr Sam Adurogboye, NCAA’s General Manager, Public Relationsmade the confirmation.

Managing Director of Caverton Helicopters, owners of the chopper, Capt. Josiah Choms, also confirmed that his organisation had informed all relevant aviation agencies about the incident.

“The relevant authorities have been duly informed and an investigation into the incident has commenced,” Choms said. “We will, of course, support the authorities as required.

“We wish to reassure the public and our various stakeholders of our unwavering commitment to safety in all our operations.”