NAF Constitutes 12-Member Board to Investigate Ondo Aircraft Crash
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has constituted a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to determine the circumstances and causes of the crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The aircraft crashed on October 5, 2026, killing all personnel on board.
The Air Force announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
According to the statement, the board is mandated to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident, identify its causes and recommend measures to prevent similar occurrences.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has also directed that search and recovery operations be sustained alongside a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
The statement named Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli as president of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Board, while Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, who heads the Investigation and Recovery Team, will coordinate the broader response.
It explained that the 12-member board comprises personnel with specialised expertise in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance, medical services and other relevant technical fields.
Representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau are also members of the board to provide additional civilian aviation expertise.
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The NAF said the investigation would examine operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors that may have contributed to the crash.
It added that investigators would systematically examine, document and preserve relevant evidence to establish the facts and determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the accident.
The inquiry will also assess the emergency response to the incident, including search and rescue operations, medical assistance, recovery efforts and the management of the crash site.
The Air Force said the board would make evidence-based recommendations to address any identified shortcomings, strengthen aviation safety and minimise the risk of similar accidents in the future.
On support for the bereaved families, the Service disclosed that it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters, under the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to provide information and clarification to the recorded next of kin of those affected.
It added that administrative arrangements had been activated, including engagements with the affected families and other support measures.
Acknowledging public interest in the investigation, the NAF pledged to provide appropriate updates as verified information becomes available.
However, it cautioned against drawing premature conclusions about the cause of the crash before the investigation is completed and its findings properly considered.
The Service reiterated that search, recovery and investigative operations remained a priority, assuring that appropriate safety recommendations arising from the board’s findings would be implemented.
By PRNigeria
