NAF Confirms 25 Dead in Igbokoda Aircraft Crash, Releases Names of Victims
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that all 25 people aboard its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, died in the crash that occurred 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, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said search-and-rescue operations were immediately activated in coordination with relevant authorities.
He said, “No survivors have been found.”
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the victims, describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.
Aneke assured the bereaved families of the Service’s full support during the difficult period.
Those who died include the five crew members: 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 CAS has directed a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while appealing for respect for the privacy and dignity of the victims’ families.
The Service also announced that a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
