Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) helicopter crash that occurred in Igbokoda, Ondo State. The incident, which was reported on October 6, 2026, claimed the lives of 25 personnel on board. Atiku described the incident as tragic and heartbreaking, saying that the scale and circumstances of the crash were devastating.

The crash, which occurred in the early hours of the day, involved a NAF aircraft that was on a mission in the region. Among those who lost their lives were airmen, soldiers, and members of their families. The incident has been described as a painful loss to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the nation at large. Atiku's condolence message was made public through a statement released by his office.

In his message, Atiku extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, as well as the governments and people of Nigeria and Ondo State. He prayed that Almighty God grant eternal rest to the souls of the departed and comfort their grieving families. The former Vice President also prayed that the Nigerian Air Force and the nation be given the strength to bear the painful loss.

The incident has sent shockwaves across the nation, with many Nigerians expressing their sympathies to the families of the victims. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has also condoled the families of the aircraft crash victims, describing the incident as a painful loss to the nation. The DHQ has promised to support the families of the victims in this difficult time.

Atiku's condolence message is one of many that have been pouring in from across the nation. The incident has been widely condemned, with many calling for an investigation into the cause of the crash. The NAF has promised to investigate the incident and provide support to the families of the victims.

The crash has also sparked reactions from across the political divide, with many politicians expressing their sympathies to the families of the victims. The incident has been described as a tragic reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in the line of duty. Atiku's message has been seen as a demonstration of his empathy and solidarity with the families of the victims.

The nation is still coming to terms with the incident, as the full details of the crash are yet to be released. The incident has highlighted the risks faced by members of the Armed Forces in the line of duty and the need for continued support for their families. The government has promised to provide support to the families of the victims and to investigate the cause of the crash.

Key points

  • Atiku Abubakar expressed sadness over the tragic loss of 25 lives in a Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
  • The incident has been described as a painful loss to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the nation at large.
  • Atiku extended his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, as well as the governments and people of Nigeria and Ondo State.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.