President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a thorough investigation into Monday’s crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The President, who expressed profound sadness over the incident, mourned the Air Force personnel involved in the crash and said the investigation must establish its cause and help prevent a recurrence.
The aircraft, carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed on Monday morning.
Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of those involved, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and officers, airmen, and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said, “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 Chief of the Air Staff briefed him, and he directed the Air Force to immediately investigate the accident.
“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences”, he said.
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for immediately activating a Search and Rescue operation following the crash.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the personnel and asked God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss”, Tinubu said.
The President assured the Air Force of his administration’s continued support as it carries out its responsibility to secure the country.
“I assure the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of our administration as they continue their vital role in securing our nation”, he added.
Tinubu also praised first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.