By Lizzy Chirkpi
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, crashed on Monday morning with 25 passengers and seven crew members on board, according to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu expressed sadness over the incident and commiserated with the families of the personnel involved, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the entire Nigerian Air Force.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” the President said.
The President said the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash and prevent a recurrence.
“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” he said.
Tinubu also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate search-and-rescue operation following the crash.
“I pray 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,” he said.
The President assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as the military carries out its constitutional responsibility of securing the country.
He also commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.
The incident occurred hours after air traffic controllers reportedly alerted authorities that the military aircraft had disappeared from radar while en route to Lagos.