A Nigerian Air Force helicopter has crashed in Kaduna in Tami village, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State in the early hours Monday.
Villagers said the crash occurred at about 5:00 am, resulting in pandemonium among residents of the community.
It was learnt that the helicopter which was on a routine operational flight, experienced technical difficulties resulting in the crash. But the pilot was said to have managed to execute emergency protocols effectively to escape from the ill-fated helicopter.
Villagers confirmed that the pilot successfully exited the crashing helicopter and emerged from the wreckage without much harm or injury.
Villagers reportedly quickly gathered at the crash site to offer assistance while expressing relief that no lives were lost.
A local who witnessed the crash said, “We heard a loud noise and rushed to the scene. We were surprised and relieved to see the pilot alive.”
A team personnel from the Nigerian Air Force were said to have promptly arrived at the crash scene to secure the area and conduct preliminary investigation.
The NAF personnel cordoned off the crash site to prevent unauthorised access and to ensure the safety of the villagers.
They immediately commenced preliminary assessments to determine the cause of the crash, which remains unknown as of the time of filing this report.
NAF has also yet to release any official statement on the incident.
Investigation is however continuing to ascertain the factors responsible for the incident.
