President Bola Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, crashed on Monday morning, involving 25 passengers and seven crew members.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of those involved in the crash, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the entire Nigerian Air Force.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Tinubu said.
The President said the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences.
He also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate search and rescue operation, as well as first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.
Tinubu prayed for the repose of the souls of the personnel involved and expressed support for their families and the Nigerian Air Force.
He assured the Air Force of his administration’s continued support as it carries out its role in securing the country.
