President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as the Federal Government moves to establish the circumstances surrounding the military aviation tragedy.
The aircraft was reportedly on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos on Monday morning when it crashed in the Igbokoda area, near a naval base.
The incident involved 25 passengers and seven crew members, according to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Reacting to the crash, Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of those involved in the accident and commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, as well as personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.
The President said the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the service to commence a comprehensive investigation to determine what caused the aircraft to crash.
Tinubu said the investigation would be critical to establishing the facts surrounding the accident and identifying measures that could help prevent a recurrence.
The President also acknowledged the swift response of the Nigerian Air Force after the aircraft went down, commending personnel involved in the search and rescue operation.
He equally praised first responders and the Ondo State Government for their intervention following the crash.
Describing the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the country, Tinubu said Nigerian military personnel continue to risk their lives in the service of the nation.
He assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as the service carries out its constitutional responsibility of defending the country.
The cause of the crash remains unknown, with authorities expected to provide further details as the investigation progresses.
Meanwhile, the President prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and asked God to give their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to cope with the loss.
