NAF Aircraft Crash Claims 25 Lives In Ondo, No Survivors Found

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 persons on board an ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, died after the aircraft crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.

The aircraft, which had five crew members and 20 passengers on board, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred on Monday.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed deep condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims, describing the incident as a painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.

He assured the bereaved families of the full support of the Service during the difficult period.

According to the NAF, search-and-rescue operations were activated immediately after the accident in coordination with relevant authorities. However, no survivor has been found.

Those on board included the five crew members: Squadron Leader MI Aburime, 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 passengers were identified as 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, Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI, 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 Chief of the Air Staff has directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The NAF said it would continue to provide timely and verified information as the investigation progresses, while urging the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information.

It also appealed to the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the victims’ families.

A condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects and sympathise with the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.