President Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State, ordering a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, titled, “President Tinubu Mourns NAF Personnel in Ondo Jet Crash, Orders Thorough Investigation of the Mishap.”
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. Preliminary information indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board, bringing the total number of people aboard to 32.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of those involved in the crash, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and officers, airmen and airwomen of the 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.
He 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 into the cause of the crash to prevent a recurrence.
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating a search and rescue operation following the accident.
He further praised the first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.
Tinubu prayed for the repose of the souls of the victims and asked God to give their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.
He also assured the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of his administration as it carries out its responsibility of securing the country.
