The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the death of all 25 persons on board an ATR 42 aircraft that crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. The 25 occupants comprised five crew members and 20 passengers.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed profound 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 nation.
According to the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, search-and-rescue operations were activated immediately following the crash in coordination with relevant authorities. However, no survivors have been found.
The five crew members were identified as:
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- 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
- Corporal Uguru HC — Aircraft Technician
The 20 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
- Lance Corporal Eledan GE
- Mrs Ezeh Nneka
- Godstmine Tarabina
- Joy Micheal
- Sunday Micheal
- Ukeme David
- Gideon Omotola
Air Marshal Aneke has directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The Nigerian Air Force also urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, stressing the importance of respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
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A condolence register has been opened at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Abuja, for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
Cruise TV News extends its deepest condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of all those who lost their lives in the tragedy.
