President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Ondo State. The incident occurred near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of the state. Tinubu directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately investigate the cause of the accident. The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the crash occurred on Monday morning.
The aircraft had 25 passengers and seven crew members on board, totaling 32 people. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, initially announced that a military aircraft had crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda after air traffic controllers lost contact with it. The NAF later confirmed that the aircraft belonged to the force.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of those involved, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and all officers, airmen, and airwomen of the NAF. He described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the entire nation. The President commended the Air Force for activating an immediate search and rescue operation after the accident.
The President praised the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site. He assured the Air Force of his administration's continued support as they continue their vital role in securing the nation. Tinubu also prayed for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, briefed Tinubu on the incident. The President directed the NAF to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences. This move aims to determine the cause of the accident and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, reported that no survivor has been found following the crash of the Nigerian Air Force aircraft. The governor's statement confirmed the severity of the incident and the impact on the local community. The crash site was promptly attended to by emergency responders.
The incident has highlighted the risks faced by military personnel in their line of duty. Tinubu's directive for a thorough investigation demonstrates the government's commitment to understanding the cause of the crash and ensuring the safety of military operations. The nation mourns the loss of the gallant officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country.
Key points
- President Tinubu orders a thorough investigation into the NAF aircraft crash in Ondo State.
- The aircraft had 32 people on board, comprising 25 passengers and seven crew members.
- Tinubu extended condolences to the families of the victims and commended the swift response of emergency responders.
