The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The aircraft crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda on Monday while on a routine flight from Benin City to Lagos.
In a statement, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the aircraft was carrying military personnel and some members of their families.
The DHQ also condoled with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force and the wider Armed Forces community over the incident.
“This is indeed a painful loss to the entire Armed Forces and the nation at large. Our personnel give their all daily to keep Nigeria safe. Their courage and sacrifices will never be forgotten,” Uba said.
He said an investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the crash in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Uba added that search and rescue operations were ongoing at the crash site, with the Nigerian Air Force working alongside other military services and emergency response agencies.
He assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces remained committed to its constitutional responsibility of protecting the country despite the incident.
“The sacrifice of our fallen heroes will continue to inspire our service to the nation,” he said.
The DHQ also appealed to members of the public to avoid speculation about the crash and respect the privacy of the affected families while official procedures continue.
The Defence Headquarters prayed for the souls of those who died and asked God to give their families the strength to cope with the loss.
It’s painful loss to Armed Forces, Nigeria – DHQ condoles families of aircraft crash victims