By Ade Oyeyemi
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigerian Air Force to investigate the cause of Monday’s crash involving an ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The President gave the directive after receiving a briefing from the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on the crash which occurred near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of the state.
Tinubu directed the Air Force to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident and identify measures that could prevent a recurrence.
“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” the President said.
The aircraft was reportedly on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos when it crashed. It was said to have been carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members.
Reacting to the incident, Tinubu expressed sadness over the crash and commiserated with the families of those affected as well as the leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.
He described the incident as a painful loss to the Armed Forces and the country, noting the risks faced by military personnel in the course of their duties.
The President also praised the Nigerian Air Force for promptly activating search-and-rescue efforts after the crash.
He commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their response to the incident and their efforts at the crash site.
Tinubu prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died in the incident and offered his condolences to their families and colleagues.
He also assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as the service carries out its constitutional responsibility of protecting the country.
The crash occurred amid ongoing rescue and emergency response efforts at the site in Igbokoda, with authorities expected to provide further details on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
