The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by National Chairman Amb. Godknows Igali, has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the eight victims who perished in the Eastwind Aviation helicopter crash into Bonny River, Rivers State. The incident occurred on Thursday while the helicopter was en route from Port Harcourt Military Base to the FPSO Nuimantan Oil Rig.
In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Christopher Ominimini, PANDEF expressed sorrow not only for the families affected but also for the Federal Government, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Rivers State government.
The forum described the loss of the oil workers who were integral to the industry as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension.”
PANDEF emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the crash to determine its causes and urged relevant agencies to implement measures to prevent future incidents. The organization offered prayers for the deceased and sought comfort for their grieving families during this difficult time.
The statement reads in part,
“PANDEF is saddened by the news of the helicopter with registration 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, that was carrying eight persons, six passengers and two crew members crashed as it was from Port Harcourt Military base, DNPM to FPSO NUIMANTAN OIL RIG (offshore Calabar).
“PANDEF notes that it was a dark day for the Rivers State, the Federal Government, especially the Aviation sector, where energetic persons who were oil workers and contract staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL died in the process.
“PANDEF mourned the oil workers, describing their passing as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension”.