Kehinde Fajobi
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) are set to meet to exchange information on the helicopter crash that claimed eight lives.
NCAA spokesperson Mike Achimugu confirmed the meeting to Vanguard on Wednesday, stating that more details would be provided after the discussions.
“I don’t have the details of that matter yet. Going into a meeting with NSIB and my technical directors to ascertain the facts. Will revert much later,” Achimugu said when asked how the helicopter avoided NCAA regulations undetected.
The crash occurred on October 24, 2024, when a Sikorsky SK76 helicopter, with registration 5N-BQG and operated by Eastwind Aviation, ditched in the Atlantic Ocean off Bonny Finima while en route from Port Harcourt Military Base to the NUIMANTAN oil rig.
Six passengers and two crew members died in the incident.
On November 18, 2025, NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh Jr. revealed in Abuja that the helicopter lacked a Flight Data Recorder (FDR), also known as a black box, despite regulations mandating it.
Badeh stated that the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs, 2023, Part 7.8.2.2 (q)) require helicopters with a maximum take-off weight of over 3,175 kg and up to 7,000 kg to be fitted with an FDR.
The absence of the black box has raised questions about compliance with aviation safety rules and the enforcement of regulatory oversight.
The Nigeria Police Force has addressed a viral video featuring Vincent Makinde, a dismissed officer seen in leg restraints, claiming wrongful detention as an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP).
In a statement on Wednesday, Force Public Relations Officer ACP Muyiwa Adejobi clarified the circumstances surrounding Makinde’s case.
Makinde, dismissed in 2022 after being found guilty of multiple offences—including abuse of office, extortion, gross misconduct, dereliction of duty, and insubordination—assaulted a senior officer and escaped lawful custody after his dismissal.
“Following his dismissal, Makinde assaulted a senior police officer and escaped lawful custody. In June 2024, he resurfaced, fraudulently portraying himself as an active officer with the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police, despite never being cleared of his previous offences or promoted,” Adejobi explained.
Makinde was recently arrested while impersonating an officer and armed with a rifle. Police operatives reported that he violently resisted arrest, prompting the use of leg restraints.
“The use of restraining devices is a globally recognized practice for individuals who actively and aggressively resist lawful detention,” Adejobi said.
He noted that Makinde’s current detention complies with protocols to ensure the safety of all involved. Investigations have also uncovered additional criminal activities linked to him.
Makinde remains in custody as inquiries into his impersonation and other offences continue.
The Police also responded to calls for Makinde’s release by prominent legal advocate Femi Falana, SAN, stating their commitment to transparency, accountability, and upholding the rule of law.
“We strive to maintain the public’s trust and confidence by ensuring that personnel who violate the law are held accountable for their actions,” the statement read.
The Force assured Nigerians of its dedication to justice and integrity in policing.