Former presidential aide, Laolu Akande, has reflected on the 2019 helicopter crash involving then Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, describing his response as a clear sign of leadership, resilience and deep faith. Akande shared the account on X, marking seven years since the incident that occurred during the heat of the general election campaign in Kabba, Kogi State.

According to Akande, the helicopter was conveying Osinbajo and 11 members of his campaign team for a Buhari–Osinbajo re-election event when it crash-landed on February 2, 2019. Remarkably, all 12 occupants survived. He described their escape as divine protection, saying the experience left everyone grateful to God for sparing their lives.

Akande revealed that after the crash, plans were made to move the Vice President and his team by road to the next campaign location. Although they later stopped at a hotel to recover and change clothes, Osinbajo reportedly refused suggestions to cancel activities for the day. His decision to return to the campaign trail shortly after the incident, Akande said, boosted the morale of those around him.

Reflecting personally, Akande noted that his wife later reminded him how the date could have marked a tragic anniversary. This, he said, deepened his gratitude and appreciation for life. He concluded that the incident remains a powerful reminder of Osinbajo’s calmness under pressure, strong faith and commitment to duty even in the face of danger.