By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
Twenty-five people, including five Nigerian Air Force personnel serving as crew members, have been confirmed dead following the crash of an NAF ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed, prompting the immediate activation of search-and-rescue operations by the Nigerian Air Force in collaboration with relevant authorities.
The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, said no survivor had been found among the 25 people on board.
According to him, the aircraft had five crew members and 20 passengers when the accident occurred.
Ejodame said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed profound condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the deceased, describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.
He said the CAS had assured the bereaved families of the full support of the Service as they navigate the difficult period.
The five crew members who died were 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 20 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 NAF said the CAS had directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Service also assured Nigerians that timely and verified updates would be provided as the investigation progresses, while urging members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information.
The Air Force further appealed to members of the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the families affected by the tragedy.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Abuja, for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects and convey messages of sympathy to the bereaved families and the Service.
The NAF said it remained committed to supporting the families of the deceased during the difficult period.
