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President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into Monday’s crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, directing the military to establish the cause of the accident and prevent a recurrence.
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The aircraft, which was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members, crashed near a naval base while operating a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, prompting the Nigerian Air Force to activate search-and-rescue operations.
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Tinubu expressed profound sadness over the incident, mourned the Air Force personnel involved and commiserated with their families, while commending first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.
October 5, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into Monday’s crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The President, who expressed profound sadness over the incident, directed the Nigerian Air Force to establish the cause of the crash and take measures to prevent a recurrence.
The aircraft, carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed on Monday morning.
Tinubu said he had been briefed by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and directed the immediate commencement of a comprehensive investigation.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.
“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,” Tinubu said.
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He 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.
“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.
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for immediately activating a search-and-rescue operation following the crash.
He praised first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site, while praying for the repose of the souls of the personnel involved.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President further assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as it carries out its responsibility of securing the country.
“I assure the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of our administration as they continue their vital role in securing our nation,” he added.
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