The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of 25 persons aboard its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, which crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, conveyed his profound condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the personnel and passengers who lost their lives in the tragic accident.
Describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, the CAS assured the bereaved families of the Service’s full support during this difficult period.
NAF 931, which had five crew members and 20 passengers on board, was undertaking a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
Following the incident, search-and-rescue operations were immediately activated in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for all persons on board. No survivors have been found.
CREW MEMBERS
Squadron Leader M.I. Aburime — Flight Captain
Squadron Leader A.P. Man-Ugwueje — Co-pilot
Flight Lieutenant I.S. Bako — Co-pilot
Warrant Officer Abubakar A. — Aircraft Technician
Corporal Uguru H.C. — Aircraft Technician
PASSENGERS
Flight Lieutenant T.L. Lazarus
Flight Lieutenant M. Akinloye
Flying Officer I.M. Adeshina
Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F.
Master Warrant Officer Matini B.A.
Warrant Officer Nuhu F.S.
Flight Sergeant James R.B.
Flight Sergeant Mohammed A.I.
Sergeant Ani A.E.
Sergeant Izibenikien S.I.
Sergeant Alafuka C.
Sergeant Mbadugha A.N.
Lance Corporal Ugwuba F.C.
Lance Corporal Eledan G.E.
Mrs Ezeh Nneka
Godstmine Tarabina
Joy Micheal
Sunday Micheal
Ukeme David
Gideon Omotola
The Chief of the Air Staff has directed a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The Nigerian Air Force said it would continue to provide timely and verified information as the investigation progresses, while urging members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified reports.
The Service also appealed for respect for the privacy and dignity of the affected families during this difficult period.
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 who wish to pay their respects and convey messages of sympathy to the bereaved families and the Nigerian Air Force.
