The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 persons on board its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, died following a crash 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 said search-and-rescue procedures were immediately activated in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for all persons on board, but no survivors were found.
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.
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said the CAS had assured the bereaved families of the Service’s full support during the difficult period.
The five crew members were identified as 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 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 CAS has directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The NAF urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
The Service also announced that a condolence register had 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 families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.
The NAF said it would continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses.
