President Bola Tinubu ordered a full investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Ondo State on Monday, an accident involving 25 passengers and seven crew members.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, the presidency said.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of those aboard, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation,” the president said.
“Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
The President said he had been briefed by the air-force chief and directed the service to begin an immediate investigation into the cause of the crash, with the aim of preventing a recurrence.
He also praised the Air Force for launching search-and-rescue operations after the accident, as well as first responders and the Ondo State government for their response at the crash site.
President Tinubu said his administration would continue to support the Air Force in its national-security role.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss,” he said.
