Tinubu Declares Three-Day National Mourning for Air Force Personnel Killed in Ondo Crash

President Bola Tinubu has declared a three-day national mourning period for Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in the military aircraft crash in Ondo State.

The President also directed that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country throughout the mourning period as a mark of respect for the deceased officers.

The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, on Monday.

The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed. It was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members.

Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the entire country, saying the sacrifices of military personnel who risk their lives to protect Nigerians would not be forgotten.

The President extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force.

Tinubu said he had been briefed by the Chief of Air Staff and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

According to the President, the investigation is necessary to establish the cause of the accident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

He also commended the Nigerian Air Force for promptly activating search and rescue operations after the aircraft went down, as well as first responders and the Ondo State Government for their response at the crash site.

The President prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asked God to give their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.

The Nigerian Air Force is expected to release the names of the personnel who died after their families have been formally contacted.

The crash has prompted a wider investigation into the circumstances surrounding the aircraft’s final moments, while authorities continue efforts to recover and identify the victims.

Tinubu assured the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of his administration as the service carries out its responsibilities in protecting the nation.