The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed the death of all 25 persons aboard its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, which crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said the aircraft had five crew members and 20 passengers on board when the accident occurred.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. The Air Force said search and rescue operations were immediately activated in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
According to the statement, no survivor has been found following the crash.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the victims, describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country.
Aneke also assured the bereaved families of the full support of the Nigerian Air Force during the difficult period.
The deceased included five crew members, comprising Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the flight captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, aircraft technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, aircraft technician.
The 20 passengers included Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus, Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye, Flying Officer IM Adeshina, Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F, Master Warrant Officer Matini BA, Warrant Officer Nuhu FS, Flight Sergeant James RB and Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI.
Others were Sergeant Ani AE, Sergeant Izibenikien SI, Sergeant Alafuka C, Sergeant Mbadugha AN, Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC, Lance Corporal Eledan GE, Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
The CAS has directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. The move is expected to establish what led to the crash and provide answers to questions surrounding the tragedy.
The Air Force urged members of the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information as the investigation progresses. It also appealed to the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
The NAF further announced the opening of a condolence register at its headquarters in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects..
