Tinubu Mourns NAF Personnel Killed In Ondo Jet Crash, Orders Probe

President Bola Tinubu has mourned Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in the crash of an ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on Monday.

The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred, with 25 passengers and seven crew members on board.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the entire Nigerian Air Force.

Describing the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the country, Tinubu said the sacrifices of military personnel who risk their lives in the service of the nation would not be forgotten.

The President disclosed that the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and said he had directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.

He said the investigation was necessary to establish what led to the accident and prevent a recurrence.

Tinubu also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate search and rescue operation following the crash, as well as first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the scene.

The President prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased personnel and asked God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.

He further assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as the service carries out its constitutional responsibility of securing the country.