Aviation Scare: Jet Carrying Taraba Senator Forced to Return to Abuja

A potential aviation disaster was narrowly avoided after a private jet carrying David Jimkuta developed a technical fault mid-air and was forced to make an emergency return to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

According to reports, the aircraft had departed Abuja en route to Taraba State when the crew detected a fault shortly after take-off. The incident reportedly occurred about six minutes into the flight when a warning alarm sounded in the cockpit, prompting the pilot to abort the journey and turn the aircraft back to Abuja in line with aviation safety procedures.

The jet was carrying Senator Jimkuta, who represents Taraba South in the National Assembly, along with members of his delegation. The senator was travelling to Takum and Wukari in Taraba State to attend the 2026 Zion Conference and also to pay condolences at the Catholic Diocese of Wukari following a recent fire incident at St. Mary’s Cathedral.

Other passengers reportedly on board included Magaji Jirape, President of the Christian Reformed Church of Nigeria, former Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly Istifanus Gbana, and APC youth leader Adi Shekarau Masa-Ibi.

The aircraft had experienced an initial delay due to weather conditions before take-off. However, shortly after departure, the pilot noticed the technical issue and immediately initiated a return to Abuja as a precautionary measure.

The plane landed safely at the Abuja airport without any injuries to passengers or crew members.

In a statement released afterward, the senator’s office expressed gratitude that the situation did not escalate into a major aviation incident.

“All passengers and crew members returned safely to Abuja, and we thank God for His mercy and preservation,” the statement said.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific nature of the mechanical fault, but aviation experts note that early detection of cockpit alerts and adherence to safety protocols are critical in preventing accidents.