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Nigerian Authorities Dispute U.S. Report on Airport Safety & Air Force Denies Anambra Involvement

Published 7 hours ago3 minute read
Nigerian Authorities Dispute U.S. Report on Airport Safety & Air Force Denies Anambra Involvement

The Nigerian Air Force has refuted claims of bombing the Mbosi community in Ihiala Local Council of Anambra State. These allegations arose after residents reported that a cannon from a military helicopter exploded within the community, allegedly resulting in the deaths of three children and the hospitalization of one individual. The community presumed that the aircraft belonged to the military. In response, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, asserted that the military did not conduct any operations in the mentioned area.

Adding to this, Azuka Innocent Okolie, the President General of the community, issued a statement on social media dismissing the claims of military involvement. Okolie emphasized that the military adheres to strict command and control protocols, requiring approval from higher authorities for all operations. He stated, "The military didn’t fire even one bullet that day. Unfortunately, the truth is that the Eastern Security Network (ESN) is responsible for the explosion. This is not an isolated incident, as they have also carried out similar attacks in other areas, including Isseke." Okolie further alleged that the ESN had planted Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) within the community, especially along track roads and in proximity to residential areas. He urged residents to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

Separately, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has challenged a report by the U.S. State Department that labeled Nigerian airports as generally unsafe. This rebuttal followed the NSIB's investigation into the helicopter crash involving the late Herbert Wigwe. Captain Alex Bade Jr, the Director-General of NSIB, stated during a live program that while the Bureau acknowledged challenges such as perimeter fencing and instances of wildlife intrusion at some airports, they strongly disagreed with the assessment that the nation’s airports are unsafe. Bade Jr argued that these issues are not unique to Nigeria and occur at airports worldwide, including those in the United States. He noted, "We recognise the need for continuous improvement, and we commend the efforts of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) in implementing upgrades."

Regarding the investigation into the accident involving the late banker, Bade Jr clarified that the NSIB did not work "side-by-side" with the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Instead, they were an interested party kept informed by the NTSB, which led the investigation in the United States. The NTSB report indicated that spatial disorientation was the probable cause of the accident. The report also highlighted deficiencies in the company’s oversight and safety management processes. Bade Jr also addressed a recent incident at the Asaba airport where an aircraft reportedly encountered animals on the runway, clarifying that the airline was fined but continued its journey to Abuja without any damage.

From Zeal News Studio(Terms and Conditions)
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