President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on Monday.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
The Presidency confirmed that 32 people — 25 passengers and seven crew members — were on board the aircraft.
In a statement issued on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of those involved, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the entire Nigerian Air Force.
“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” the President said.
Tinubu said the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash and help prevent similar occurrences.
The President also commended the Air Force for swiftly activating its search and rescue operation following the accident.
He further praised first responders and the Ondo State Government for their prompt 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.
He assured the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of his administration as it carries out its constitutional responsibility of protecting the nation.
The crash has cast a pall over the Armed Forces, with authorities expected to provide further details as rescue operations and investigations continue.
By ABC News Nigeria
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