President Bola Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning for Nigerian Air Force personnel who died after a military aircraft crashed near a naval base around Igbokoda in Ondo State.
The President, in a statement issued on Monday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the deceased officers.
Tinubu further ordered a comprehensive investigation into the Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft that crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The President said that after receiving a briefing from the Chief of Staff, he had directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately begin a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash in order to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“I commend the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate Search and Rescue operation following the accident.
“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.
“I assure the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of our administration as they continue their vital role in securing our nation.
“I also commend the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site”, Tinubu said.
The President said he was deeply saddened by the incident involving the aircraft, which was reportedly on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos when the crash occurred.
Tinubu conveyed his condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved in the incident, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and personnel of the 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 the national mourning period was intended to honour the personnel who lost their lives while carrying out their duties and to recognise the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces in the service of the country.
He also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Air Force as it carries out its responsibilities, while the investigation is expected to establish the circumstances that led to the crash.
