The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has refuted circulating reports that one of its helicopters crashed in Kaduna’s Igabi council area.
According to NAF, the incident involved a drone, not a helicopter, and occurred near Rumji Village, approximately 15 kilometres from the base. The drone experienced a mishap shortly after takeoff for a mission, but there were no casualties as it was unmanned.
NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, emphasised the importance of verifying information before dissemination. He criticised the premature and inaccurate reports by some media outlets, which had incorrectly claimed a helicopter crash without confirming the details with NAF.
Gabkwet reassured the public that a preliminary investigation is underway to determine the cause of the drone mishap. He assured Nigerians that this minor setback would not affect ongoing operations. He also urged media professionals to practise balanced and responsible reporting, seeking clarification from authorised military sources before publishing such news.
“This behaviour undermines the principles of developmental journalism, balanced reporting, and fairness. Media members are advised to verify information from authorised military channels before rushing to break news,” Gabkwet stated.
