Tinubu Orders Probe of Ondo NAF Jet Crash, Mourns Personnel

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigerian Air Force to conduct a thorough investigation into the crash of an NAF ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, while mourning the personnel and passengers involved in the incident.

The aircraft crashed on Monday morning near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area. It was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when the accident occurred.

According to preliminary information released by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board the aircraft, bringing the total number of people aboard to 32.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said he had been briefed by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and directed the Air Force to immediately investigate the cause of the crash.

The President said the investigation was necessary to establish what led to the accident and help prevent similar incidents in the future.

Tinubu described the crash as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the country, noting that Air Force personnel routinely put their lives at risk while carrying out their duties.

He extended his condolences to the families of those involved, the Chief of the Air Staff and officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force.

The President also commended the NAF for activating search and rescue operations immediately after the accident, as well as first responders and the Ondo State Government for their response at the crash site.

“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,” Tinubu said.

The Nigerian Air Force had earlier confirmed the crash and said search and rescue operations were being conducted in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.

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

Authorities have urged the public to rely on official information as rescue operations and investigations continue.