We Won’t Investigate Ondo NAF Crash Without Military Invitation — NSIB

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has said it will not independently investigate the Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, unless formally invited by the military.

The NSIB said the incident involved a military aircraft and, under the NSIB Establishment Act, 2022, responsibility for investigating military aviation accidents rests with the military authority.

The aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, was on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area on Monday.

Preliminary information from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board, bringing the total number of people aboard to 32.

The Nigerian Air Force has activated search and rescue operations in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies. The circumstances surrounding the crash and the condition of those on board were still being established as rescue operations continued.

In a statement signed by its Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., the NSIB clarified that its position was not a refusal to assist the Air Force.

The bureau said it was ready to provide technical support if formally requested by the Nigerian Air Force. Such assistance could include deploying investigators and using its Flight Safety Laboratory to recover, read and analyse flight data and cockpit voice recordings.

The NSIB also expressed condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the families and colleagues of those on board, while commending first responders involved in the rescue operation.

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash, with the aim of preventing similar incidents in the future.

The NSIB urged the public to rely on official updates from the Nigerian Air Force concerning the rescue operation and any subsequent investigation.

The bureau said any further information from its end would be released when appropriate and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.