By Opeyemi Adelakun
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of a military aircraft crash in Ondo State.
The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 jet crashed on Monday morning near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
This was contained in a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on Monday.
Tinubu expressed sadness over the incident and extended his condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved in the crash.
The President also commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, as well as officers, airmen and airwomen 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,” Tinubu said.
The President said the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” he said.
Tinubu also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating a search and rescue operation immediately after the accident.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and asked God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear the loss.
The President assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support in carrying out its responsibilities towards national security.
He also commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.
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