NSIB Clarifies Number of Recovered Bodies in Bonny Finima Helicopter Ditching Incident

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has issued an official clarification on the recovery efforts following the recent Sikorsky SK76 helicopter ditching incident off the coast of Bonny Finima. 

The helicopter, registered as 5N BQG and operated by Eastwind Aviation, went down in the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday, October 24, 2024, with eight individuals on board.

In a statement signed by Mrs Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, the Bureau clarified that contrary to earlier reports, which claimed that five bodies had been recovered, only three bodies were successfully retrieved on the day of the incident. Efforts to locate and recover additional bodies continued on October 25, 2024. 

According to the statement, while divers were able to locate two more bodies, difficult conditions, including strong ocean currents and limited visibility, prevented immediate recovery.

“The NSIB, alongside our partners, is fully committed to locating and recovering all individuals and critical components from this unfortunate accident,” said Captain Alex Badeh Jr., Director General of the NSIB. 

“Our team is working tirelessly to manage the challenging conditions. We remain committed to a thorough investigation that will provide clear answers for the families, loved ones, and the nation,” he added.

In its pursuit of a thorough and efficient recovery operation, the NSIB is deploying a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) outfitted with advanced sensors and cameras. 

The ROV will enhance visibility in the deep-sea environment, enabling precise retrieval operations and assisting in the gathering of vital evidence crucial to the ongoing investigation.

The Bureau said it is working with a coalition of government agencies and private partners to ensure that the recovery and investigation proceed as effectively as possible. 

The NSIB also urged the public to avoid speculation, as unverified information can detract from both investigative efforts and the dignity of those affected.

Through its independent investigation process, the NSIB assured that it will bring clarity and closure to the families impacted by this tragic incident.