A member of the National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress, Tolu Bankole, has commended President Bola Tinubu for ordering an immediate investigation into the cause of the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Ondo State. The crash, which occurred on Monday, claimed the lives of 32 people, including 25 passengers and seven crew members. Bankole described the President's directive as timely and necessary to prevent a recurrence of the tragedy.
The aircraft, an NAF ATR-42, crashed near Igbokoda in the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State. President Tinubu had directed the NAF to immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday. Tinubu also declared a three-day national mourning and directed that flags be flown at half-mast in honour of the fallen heroes.
Bankole described the incident as a "heartbreaking loss" to the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces, and the country. He said the deceased personnel had made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The APC chieftain extended his heartfelt condolences to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the officers, airmen, and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force, and the families of the fallen heroes.
Bankole also commended the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and urged Nigerians to stand in solidarity with the Armed Forces during the period of mourning. The APC chieftain said the sacrifice and dedicated service of the deceased to the nation would never be forgotten.
The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that the aircraft was on a mission when it crashed. The cause of the crash is yet to be determined. The President's directive for an investigation is seen as a demonstration of responsive leadership. Bankole said the President's prompt and compassionate response was commendable.
The Federal Government has promised to support the families of the victims. The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has assured that the government would not abandon the bereaved families. Atiku Abubakar, a former Vice President, has expressed condolences to the families of the victims and the Nigerian Air Force.
The nation is still in shock over the tragic loss of lives. The incident has generated widespread reactions, with many Nigerians expressing sadness and shock. The government has announced measures to support the families of the victims and to prevent such incidents in the future.
Key points
- President Tinubu orders immediate investigation into NAF aircraft crash.
- 32 people killed in Ondo State air crash.
- APC chieftain Tolu Bankole commends President Tinubu's directive.
