By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor in Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Nigerian Air Force has officially confirmed the death of all 25 persons aboard an NAF ATR 42 aircraft that crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State, bringing the tragic incident into sharp national focus.

The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed. The Nigerian Air Force said the aircraft was carrying five crew members and 20 passengers, with search and rescue operations activated immediately after the accident.

In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said all persons on board had been accounted for and that no survivor was found. The Service said the rescue effort was conducted in coordination with relevant authorities following the crash.

The five crew members who lost their lives 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 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; Lance Corporal Eledan GE; Mrs Ezeh Nneka; Godstmine Tarabina; Joy Micheal; Sunday Micheal; Ukeme David; and Gideon Omotola.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the crash as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, while extending his condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased. He assured the bereaved families that the Service would provide the necessary support during the difficult period.

Aneke has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash to determine what led to the accident. The investigation is expected to establish the sequence of events preceding the crash and provide answers to the circumstances surrounding the loss of the aircraft and the 25 people on board.

The Nigerian Air Force has also appealed to members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information concerning the tragedy, stressing the need to protect the privacy and dignity of the bereaved families. The Service said further verified information would be released as the investigation progresses.

Meanwhile, the NAF has opened a condolence register at its headquarters in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well wishers who wish to pay their respects to the families of the victims and the Nigerian Air Force.