The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 persons on board an ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, died after the aircraft crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The aircraft, which had five crew members and 20 passengers on board, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said search-and-rescue operations were immediately activated following the incident.
He said no survivor had been found.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims, describing the incident as a painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country.
The five crew members were identified as
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;
and Corporal Uguru HC, Aircraft Technician.
The passengers included 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
and Lance Corporal Eledan GE.
Others were Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
The CAS has directed a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF urged members of the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information as the investigation continues.
The Service also said it would continue to provide timely and verified updates while respecting the privacy and dignity of the victims’ families.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at NAF Headquarters, Abuja, for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
