By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has mourned the loss of 25 persons who died in the crash involving its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft had five crew members and 20 passengers on board when the accident occurred during a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed profound condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of those who lost their lives, 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 and directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.
The five crew members who died in the crash were Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the 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 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 and Lance Corporal Eledan GE.
Also listed among the passengers were five civilians: Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
The NAF said Search and Rescue procedures were immediately activated following the accident, with response efforts conducted in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for all persons on board. However, no survivors were found.
The Service said it would continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses, while urging the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information.
The NAF also appealed to members of the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the affected families during the difficult period.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, 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.
