The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of individuals who lost their lives in the crash of an NAF ATR 42 aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday. The aircraft, known as NAF 931, was on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos with five crew members and 20 passengers on board. According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF spokesperson, the accident resulted in no survivors, prompting an urgent launch of search-and-rescue efforts.
The five crew members who died in the crash were identified as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the flight captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, aircraft technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, aircraft technician. The NAF also released the names of the 20 passengers who perished, including senior officers and technicians.
The NAF has confirmed that a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash has been ordered by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke. Aneke described the event as a very sad time for both the Nigerian Air Force and the country, and promised that the Service would fully support the grieving families during this tough time.
The victims included Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus; Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye; Flying Officer IM Adeshina; Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F; Master Warrant Officer Matini BA; Warrant Officer Nuhu FS; Flight Sergeant James RB; Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI; Sergeant Ani AE; Sergeant Izibenikien SI; Sergeant Alafuka C; Sergeant Mbadugha AN; Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC; Lance Corporal Eledan GE; Mrs. Ezeh Nneka; Godstmine Tarabina; Joy Micheal; Sunday Micheal; Ukeme David; and Gideon Omotola.
In addition to supporting the families of the victims, the NAF has set up a condolence book at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja. This allows senior government officials, members of the diplomatic community, heads of security agencies, and others who want to express their sympathy and support for the families of those who passed away as well as for the NAF.
The condolence book is an opportunity for those who wish to pay their respects to the victims and their families. The NAF has also confirmed that all necessary support is being provided to the families during this difficult time. The Service has assured the public that it will provide updates on the investigation into the crash.
Key among the support measures is the provision of counseling services to the families of the victims. The NAF has also promised to take care of the educational and welfare needs of the victims' dependents.
Key points
- 25 people died in the crash, including 5 crew members and 20 passengers.
- The NAF has ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
- A condolence book has been set up at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja for sympathizers to pay their respects.
