Former Anambra State Governor and NDC Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, visited the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) facility in Abuja to sign the condolence register for victims of the military aircraft crash in Ondo State. The crash, which occurred on Monday, October 5, involved a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft that was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State, resulting in the loss of all 25 people on board.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that the 25 people on board comprised five crew members and 20 passengers. Obi's visit to the NAF facility was to formally pay his respects and identify with the military authorities and families affected by the tragedy. During his visit, Obi reflected on the risks faced by members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies while carrying out their duties. He emphasized that those serving in the security services continue to place their lives at risk in the course of defending the country and protecting citizens.
Obi described the victims as courageous Nigerians who had committed themselves to the service of the country. He said the loss should remind Nigerians of the personal sacrifices made by military personnel and other security officers who operate in difficult and dangerous circumstances. Obi extended his condolences to the Nigerian Air Force over the incident and commiserated with the families of the deceased, as well as their colleagues, friends, and other loved ones who have been affected by the tragedy.
The crash occurred near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State. Following the incident, search and rescue operations were activated by the Nigerian Air Force in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies. The incident triggered fresh mourning within the Armed Forces, with military authorities expressing condolences to the families of those who died.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the victims. The NAF subsequently released the names of the 25 people who were on board the aircraft. The aircraft was reportedly carrying personnel and passengers as part of its routine operational movement between Benin and Lagos. Details surrounding the circumstances that led to the crash remain subject to investigation.
President Bola Tinubu declared a three-day national mourning period in honour of the Air Force personnel who died in the crash and directed that national flags be flown at half-mast throughout the country. He also ordered the Nigerian Air Force to commence a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Tinubu commended the immediate search and rescue efforts activated after the crash and said the sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces would not be forgotten.
The Ondo State Government directed relevant agencies to provide logistical and emergency support to the rescue operation at the crash site. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said personnel from the Nigerian Navy and local residents were among those who attempted to reach the crash area after the incident. The Nigerian Air Force has continued its engagement with relevant authorities as investigations into the crash proceed.
Key points
- Peter Obi visited the NAF facility to sign the condolence register for victims of the military aircraft crash in Ondo State.
- The crash resulted in the loss of all 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.
- President Bola Tinubu declared a three-day national mourning period in honour of the Air Force personnel who died in the crash.
