REVEALED: NAF releases identities of 25 personnel killed in Ondo aircraft crash
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the identities of the 25 personnel and passengers killed in the crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which had five crew members and 20 passengers on board, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
The NAF, in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said no survivor had been found following the crash.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed profound condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the victims, describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.
The five crew members who lost their lives were identified as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the Flight Captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje and Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, both Co-pilots; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, an Aircraft Technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, also an Aircraft Technician.
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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 and Lance Corporal Eledan GE.
Others were Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
According to the NAF, search-and-rescue procedures were activated immediately after the accident, with response efforts conducted in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for all persons on board.
The service said the Chief of the Air Staff had directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Aneke assured the bereaved families of the Nigerian Air Force’s full support during the difficult period, while extending his sympathies to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the deceased.
The NAF also urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information as investigations continue.
It appealed to the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the affected families and said it would provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in 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 families of the victims and the Nigerian Air Force.
By PRNigeria
