The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has declared that all 25 persons on board its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, died following the crash in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, made the declaration on Tuesday while expressing condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims.
According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft had five crew members and 20 passengers on board.
NAF 931 was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
“Search-and-rescue procedures were immediately activated, with response efforts conducted in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for all persons on board. No survivors have been found,” the statement said.
The CAS described the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, assuring the bereaved families of the Service’s full support during the difficult period.
The deceased 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 20 passengers were identified as 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; Lance Corporal Eledan GE; Mrs Ezeh Nneka; Godstmine Tarabina; Joy Micheal; Sunday Micheal; Ukeme David; and Gideon Omotola.
The NAF said the CAS had directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
It added that the Service would continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses.
The Air Force also urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while appealing to them to respect the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects and convey messages of sympathy to the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.
