Hunger hits Ondo communities as NAF plane crash disrupts livelihoods

Residents of fishing communities in Igbokoda, Ondo State, are facing growing hunger and economic hardship following the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash that disrupted fishing and transportation activities.

The aircraft, carrying 25 people, crashed into the waterways on October 5, leaving fishermen, fish traders and boat operators struggling to earn a living.

According to The PUNCH, Chairman of the Ilaje Fishermen Association, Festus Ikuomola, disclosed that approximately 1,500 fishermen had been affected, with movement restrictions and fears of water contamination preventing many from working.

“Normally, our people make between N15,000 and N30,000 on a good day, but most of them have not been doing anything since that day. Only a few who have bigger boats go far away to fish and return to sell, which is not economically viable if you compare how much they spend and what they make,” Ikuomola stated.

He appealed for government intervention, environmental cleanup, and compensation for affected residents.

Boat operator Yemi Adetimehin, who previously earned between N30,000 and N50,000 daily, said restrictions had eliminated his income.

Another operator, Shola Michael, said he had resorted to commercial motorcycle riding to support his family.

The Olugbokoda of Igbokoda, Oba Afolabi Odidiomo, petitioned President Bola Tinubu, requesting environmental assessments and compensation arrangements.

Ondo State Commissioner for Environment, Tob Loko, said officials would test water and air quality to determine possible contamination and appropriate action.

The Nigerian Air Force also pledged to involve environmental and public health authorities after recovery operations.

Meanwhile, relatives of crash victims expressed frustration over delays in recovering and identifying remains, saying the lack of updates had compounded their grief in the affected communities.