President Bola Tinubu has declared a three-day national mourning for Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in a military aircraft crash in Ondo State. The declaration was made in honour of the officers who lost their lives in the incident. Flags will be flown at half-mast across the country during the mourning period. The crash occurred on Monday when a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, had 25 passengers and seven crew members on board. According to Tinubu, the incident was a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the country. He described the sacrifice of the Air Force personnel as unforgettable, saying they risk their lives daily to secure Nigeria. The president commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate search and rescue operation following the accident.
Tinubu directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash. The investigation aims to establish the cause of the incident and prevent a recurrence. The president also commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site. He extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the Chief of the Air Staff, and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State reported that no survivor had been found at the crash site despite efforts by residents, security personnel, and emergency responders. The governor disclosed this during an interview on Channels Television, stating that he received information about the crash at about 10:30 am. Residents across the river from the Nigerian Navy base in Igbokoda heard a loud sound and later saw the aircraft plunge into a swampy area.
According to Governor Aiyedatiwa, Navy personnel initially stayed back to determine whether the crash had resulted in a fire or explosion before moving towards the site. Officials of the local emergency management agency, residents, and personnel of the Amotekun Corps subsequently joined the search for possible survivors. However, no living soul was found on board.
Searchers recovered parts of the aircraft, including pieces of its wings, identification cards, and uniforms, which helped establish that the crashed aircraft was a military plane. Governor Aiyedatiwa described the crash as a painful development, particularly because it occurred in Ondo State and his home local government. The governor expressed sadness and agreed with the nation on the unfortunate incident.
The Presidency announced that the Nigerian Air Force would release the names of the officers who died after contacting their families. Tinubu prayed for the repose of the souls of the officers who died and asked God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss. He assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration's continued support as the service carries out its responsibility of securing the country.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu declares 3-day national mourning for Nigerian Air Force personnel killed in air crash
- No survivor found at the crash site in Ondo State
- Investigation into the cause of the crash has been initiated
