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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 people aboard its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, died following an accident in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters, the aircraft, carrying five crew members and 20 passengers, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
The Air Force said it activated search-and-rescue procedures immediately, coordinating with relevant authorities to locate and account for everyone on board. No survivors were found.
Read More : Civillians Among Victims in NAF Crash
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the accident as a “deeply painful moment” for the Nigerian Air Force and the country. He expressed condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of those who died and assured the bereaved families of the Air Force’s support.
The five crew members were Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the 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 included Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus, Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye, Flying Officer IM Adeshina, Master Warrant Officers Onwuka F and Matini BA, Warrant Officer Nuhu FS, Flight Sergeants James RB and Mohammed AI, as well as several other military personnel and civilians.
The civilian passengers named by the Air Force were Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
Aneke has ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The Nigerian Air Force said it would release “timely and verified updates” as the investigation progresses. It also appealed to members of the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
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 who wish to pay their respects.
