Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo Marks 7th Anniversary of Helicopter Crash with Heartfelt Thanksgiving

In a touching display of faith and gratitude, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has commemorated the seventh anniversary of his miraculous survival from a helicopter crash that could have ended tragically. Taking to social media, Osinbajo shared a profound testimony, crediting divine intervention for saving him and 11 others on board without a single injury.

The incident occurred on February 2, 2019, when the AgustaWestland AW139 helicopter, operated by Caverton Helicopters, crash-landed in Kabba, Kogi State, during an election campaign rally for the All Progressives Congress (APC). Osinbajo, who was then serving as Vice President under President Muhammadu Buhari, was en route to a political event when the aircraft encountered issues during landing.

As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, the crash was attributed to human error, with the Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) citing inappropriate landing techniques by the captain and failure to adhere to company procedures. The report also highlighted “brownout” conditions—a dust cloud that severely reduced visibility—as a contributing factor. Remarkably, all passengers, including Osinbajo’s aides, security personnel, and crew, emerged unscathed, an outcome Osinbajo has repeatedly described as “only mercy, only grace.”

In his anniversary post, accompanied by photos from renowned photographer Tolani Alli (@tolanialli) and music by gospel artist Dunsin Oyekan (@dunsinoyekan), Osinbajo reflected on God’s faithfulness. He quoted lyrics from Oyekan’s song “Nagode,” which resonate with themes of divine protection:

“You have been faithful More than just faithful From my cradle days Till this very hour And I know You will You will be with me Till the very end Ubangiji (Sovereign God) Yesu (Jesus) Nabaka godiya (I give You thanks) Sarkin duniya (The King of all the Earth) Nagode (Thank You)“

Osinbajo continued with a personal testimony: “God of my journey, I remember how You saved us. I remember how You brought us out. Seven years ago, You carried every one of us out of that helicopter crash without a single scrape. Not one life lost. Not one wound left behind. Only mercy. Only grace. Lord, we are deeply grateful. We give You all the glory, all the honor, and all the adoration. NAGODE!!!“

The post, which has garnered widespread reactions online, echoes similar commemorations in previous years. On the second anniversary in 2021, Osinbajo expressed similar thanks, noting how the experience strengthened his faith.

Eyewitness accounts from 2019 described the helicopter tilting and crashing near Kabba Township Stadium, with dust enveloping the area. Despite the severity, Osinbajo proceeded with his campaign activities shortly after, demonstrating resilience.

Today, as Nigeria reflects on this event amid ongoing discussions about aviation safety, Osinbajo’s message serves as a reminder of hope and gratitude. The former Vice President, now a prominent figure in legal and economic circles, continues to inspire many with his story of survival.