President Bola Tinubu has directed a thorough investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State. The incident occurred on Monday morning, and the aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. Tinubu expressed profound sadness over the incident and mourned the Air Force personnel involved.
The President commiserated with the families of those involved in the crash and commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site. According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.
Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Air Force to establish the cause of the crash and take measures to prevent a recurrence. He was briefed by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and ordered the immediate commencement of a comprehensive investigation. The President assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration's continued support as it carries out its responsibility of securing the country.
The aircraft crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State, prompting the Nigerian Air Force to activate search-and-rescue operations. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of military aircraft and the need for thorough investigations into such crashes. The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed the crash and is working to determine the cause.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of those involved in the crash, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff and officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force. He prayed for the repose of the souls of the personnel involved and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss.
The President commended the Nigerian Air Force for immediately activating a search-and-rescue operation following the crash. The swift response by the Air Force and the Ondo State Government helped to mitigate the impact of the incident. The cause of the crash is still unknown, and the investigation is ongoing.
The incident has sparked widespread concern and condolences from across the country. The Nigerian government has assured the public that it will do everything possible to support the families of those involved and to prevent similar incidents in the future. Key officials are working closely with the Nigerian Air Force to investigate the crash and provide support to those affected.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu orders a thorough investigation into the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Ondo State.
- The incident occurred on Monday morning, and the aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members.
- Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Air Force to establish the cause of the crash and take measures to prevent a recurrence.
