A Skypower Express Cessna 172 cargo plane crash-landed at Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri, Imo State, on Tuesday, leaving four passengers injured.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) confirmed the incident in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Mrs. Bimbo Oladeji. The aircraft, registered as 5N-ASR, had been flying from Kaduna to Port Harcourt when the crew declared an in-flight emergency and diverted to Owerri.
The crash occurred around 8:00 pm while the plane was approaching Runway 17. NSIB said the aircraft landed hard and overturned on the tarmac. All four passengers survived and were immediately taken to a nearby hospital, though their current medical condition has not been independently verified.
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“Airport emergency services responded immediately, and there was no post-crash fire. Other airport operations were not affected,” the bureau said.
NSIB Director-General Captain Alex Badeh Jr confirmed that an investigation has begun. “We are coordinating with relevant authorities to secure the site and examine the aircraft. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” he added.