Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 persons on board its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, died when the aircraft crashed 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 Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed deep condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims, describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country.
Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said search-and-rescue procedures were immediately activated after the accident in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for everyone on board.
He, however, confirmed that no survivors were found.
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 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.
Aneke has directed a comprehensive investigation into the accident to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF said it would continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses, while urging the public to refrain from speculation and circulation of unverified information.
The Service also appealed for respect for the privacy and dignity of the bereaved families.
Meanwhile, 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 wishing to pay their respects and convey messages of sympathy to the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.
About the Author
