Private Jet Carrying VIPs Overshoots Runway at Ibadan Airport

In a startling incident reminiscent of one just two months ago, a private jet transporting about 10 individuals, including Very Important Personalities (VIPs), overshot the runway at Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The incident occurred on Friday around 11 am, involving a private jet with registration number N580KR, which missed the runway and ended up in a nearby bush.

Immediate response was initiated, with firefighters and rescue officials from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) swiftly deployed to the scene. Fortunately, there were no reported casualties or fatalities.

Carol Adekotujo, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), confirmed that the private plane, originating from Abuja, landed safely but encountered an issue with overshooting the runway.

Tunji Oketunmbi, spokesperson for the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), also verified the incident.

This occurrence adds to the growing concern about aviation incidents in recent months, despite changes in leadership within aviation agencies. Notably, in November, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, narrowly escaped a plane crash at the same airport.

Calls for Urgent Repairs

Expressing concern over the safety of air travel, Abuja-based lawyer Pelumi Olajengbesi emphasized the need for urgent repairs to the Ibadan Airport runway.

In a Facebook post reacting to Friday’s incident, Olajengbesi urged immediate action, stating, “The paramount concern for the safety of air travel now brings to light the precarious condition of Ibadan Airport’s runway.”

He continued, “Urgent action is not just necessary; it is an immediate imperative to avert future catastrophes. Beyond a mere plea for the convenience of airport users, it is a heartfelt demand to protect lives.”

Olajengbesi implored relevant authorities to temporarily close Ibadan Airport and embark on essential repairs to ensure the highest standards of safety in air travel infrastructure.