The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has initiated an investigation into the crash of one of its ATR 42 aircraft, which occurred in Igbokoda, Ondo State, resulting in the deaths of 30 personnel, comprising five crew members and 25 passengers. The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, led the search and recovery efforts at the swampy site and extended condolences to the families of the victims. Aneke assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the air accident.
The investigation panel, comprising high-level military and civilian aviation experts, has been constituted to probe the incident. The team includes safety experts, representatives of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, the Accident Investigation Bureau, and Emergency Management agencies, as well as retired senior military officers and experienced NAF personnel. Air Marshal Aneke emphasized that the investigation would be thorough and professional, with all relevant evidence carefully secured, documented, preserved, and examined.
Air Marshal Aneke, who was familiar with the crashed aircraft, revealed that he and members of his family had once flown on the ill-fated plane. He paid tribute to the victims, saying that they left records of service, sacrifice, and commitment to the nation. The Air Chief reaffirmed the Air Force's commitment to a recovery operation driven by the highest standards of professionalism, coordination, and diligence.
The Head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, provided an update on the recovery efforts, stating that the accident site had been secured and recovered items and evidence were being properly documented and preserved to support the ongoing investigation. Ebiowe emphasized that no conclusion on the cause of the accident could be made until the investigation is concluded.
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) expressed deep shock and pain over the crash, describing the incident as a painful loss to the nation and the South-South geopolitical zone. The organization called for a speedy probe to unravel the cause of the accident. PANDEF's National Chairman, Godknows Igali, noted that several people from the region were among those affected.
The Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN) also mourned the tragedy, saying that the victims died on duty and their memories should be honored. The group extended its deepest condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, the officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the deceased.
Air Marshal Aneke thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his guidance and leadership during these challenging times. He also appreciated the governor and people of Ondo State for their support and commitment of resources, time, and energy to the recovery efforts. The Air Chief urged Nigerians to avoid speculations and allow specialists to investigate the incident.
Key points
- The Nigerian Air Force has set up a panel to investigate the crash of an ATR 42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, which killed 30 personnel.
