NIGERIA: Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the military aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, which claimed the lives of 32 people on board.
Musa said the probe would establish the circumstances and cause of the crash while ensuring that necessary operational safety measures are strengthened across military aviation units, reports Channels TV.
The Defence Minister, in a statement issued on Monday, expressed deep grief over the loss of what he described as “brave officers and airmen” in the tragedy.
“A comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate crash has been ordered to ascertain the cause and ensure all necessary operational safety protocols are reinforced across our military aviation units,” Musa said.
Describing the incident as one that had left him with a “profound sense of grief and heavy heart”, the minister said the deaths represented a major loss to the Armed Forces and the country.
“The loss of these valiant patriots is an irreparable blow not only to the military high command and their comrades-in-arms, but to the entire Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
Musa said the deceased personnel represented the highest ideals of military service, describing them as officers and men who exemplified professionalism, loyalty and commitment to defending Nigeria.
He extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the Armed Forces, and the immediate families, loved ones and colleagues of the deceased.
“We share in your immense grief and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you during this tragic hour,” he said.
The minister also acknowledged the civilian passengers who were on board the aircraft, extending his sympathy to their families.
“Our hearts also go out to the families of the civilians on board the ill-fated aircraft; we share your grief,” Musa said.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of all those who died and for strength for their families, the military community and Nigerians to cope with the loss.
The crash occurred when the Nigerian Air Force aircraft, an ATR-42, was travelling from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos on what the authorities described as a routine mission.
The aircraft crashed at Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State shortly after 9:00am on Monday.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had confirmed that 25 passengers and seven crew members were aboard the aircraft, bringing the total number of people on board to 32.
President Tinubu has also ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the crash.
The President declared three days of national mourning and directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect for the victims.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Tinubu said in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu also commended the Nigerian Air Force, first responders and the Ondo State Government for their response to the crash, while praying for the families of the victims and the entire military community.
