32 Aboard As Military Aircraft Crashes In Ondo, NAF Launches Search Operation

A military ATR-42 aircraft with 32 people on board has crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) activating a search and rescue operation.

The aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, was travelling from Benin to Lagos when air traffic controllers lost contact with it at about 9:13 a.m. on Monday.

The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development said the aircraft was later confirmed to have crashed close to the Naval Base in Igbokoda, where its wreckage was located.

According to preliminary information released by the ministry, 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board the aircraft. Their condition was not immediately disclosed as rescue operations continued.

The NAF also confirmed the accident, saying the aircraft was on a routine mission when it crashed and that search and rescue efforts had commenced immediately in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said he had spoken with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and assured the military of the ministry’s full cooperation and assistance.

The NAF said further details on the incident would be released as they become available.