Tinubu Mourns 32 Passengers in NAF Plane Crash, Orders Investigation
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, involving 32 passengers and crew members, and ordered an immediate investigation into the cause of the accident.
The military aircraft, carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area on Monday morning.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the 32 people involved, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and officers, airmen and airwomen of the 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.
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The President disclosed that he had been briefed by the Chief of the Air Staff and had directed the NAF to immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“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.
Tinubu also commended the Air Force for activating an immediate search-and-rescue operation following the accident.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of those involved and asked Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the loss.
The President further assured the Air Force of his administration’s continued support in carrying out its national security responsibilities.
He also commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.
The Presidency said investigations would determine the circumstances and cause of the accident.
By PRNigeria
