A tragic military plane crash near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, has claimed the lives of 32 people, prompting President Bola Tinubu to declare a three-day national mourning period. The incident involved a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 Jet with tail number NAF 931, which crashed into a swampy terrain in the morning. The crash threw residents of the coastal community into panic, with military gear reportedly recovered from the scene.
President Tinubu has ordered a probe into the crash and directed that flags be flown at half-mast nationwide during the mourning period. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has pledged his ministry's cooperation and assistance in the ongoing search and rescue efforts. The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has commended the swift activation of search and rescue operations and urged the public to rely on official updates from the NAF.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic crash, which involved dedicated personnel of the Armed Forces. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has offered to provide technical expertise and assistance to support the search and rescue operations. The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has directed the mobilisation of state emergency and health agencies to support the rescue efforts.
The crash occurred in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State, with the aircraft reportedly burning to rubble. The Chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area, Maurice Oripelaye, confirmed the incident, stating that military gear was found at the scene. The Ondo State Police Command has urged residents to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information.
The incident has attracted widespread condemnation, with many Nigerians mourning the loss of life. The NSIB has assured the public that it will conduct a thorough investigation into the crash. The NCAA has also pledged its support for the investigation and rescue efforts.
President Tinubu's declaration of a three-day national mourning period is a testament to the gravity of the incident. The country is expected to come together to mourn the deceased and show solidarity with their families. The incident has also raised concerns about the safety of military aircraft and the need for thorough investigations into such incidents.
The search and rescue operations are ongoing, with efforts focused on supporting the families of the deceased and providing assistance to those affected. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by military personnel and the importance of ensuring their safety. Key Points: 32 people died in the NAF plane crash; President Tinubu declares 3-day national mourning period; Probe into the crash ordered.
