The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of 25 people who died in the crash of its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Ondo State.
The aircraft crashed in the Igbokoda area while travelling from Benin to Lagos on a routine mission. Sadly, the NAF confirmed that none of the 25 people on board survived the accident.
NAF Confirms 25 People Died in Crash
NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the deaths in a statement on Tuesday. He said five crew members and 20 passengers travelled on the aircraft. According to him, search-and-rescue teams activated emergency procedures immediately after the crash and worked with relevant authorities to locate everyone on board.
“NAF 931 had 25 persons on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers,” Ejodame said.
“The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.”
He added that the rescue teams found no survivors. The five crew members included Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the flight captain, and Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, one of the co-pilots. Flight Lieutenant IS Bako also served as a co-pilot, while Warrant Officer Abubakar A and Corporal Uguru HC worked as aircraft technicians.
Names of the 20 Passengers
The passengers included Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus, Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye, Flying Officer IM Adeshina, Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F, Master Warrant Officer Matini BA and Warrant Officer Nuhu FS. Flight Sergeant James RB, Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI, Sergeant Ani AE and Sergeant Izibenikien SI also lost their lives in the crash.
Other victims included Sergeant Alafuka C, Sergeant Mbadugha AN, Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC and Lance Corporal Eledan GE. Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola completed the list of passengers released by the NAF.
NAF Orders Investigation Into Crash
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country. He expressed condolences to the victims’ families, loved ones and colleagues. Aneke also assured the bereaved families that the NAF would provide its full support during this difficult period.
The Chief of the Air Staff has ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine what caused the crash. The NAF also promised to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, the military urged Nigerians to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified reports.
A condolence register has also opened at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja. Senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security chiefs and other well-wishers can use the register to pay their respects and send messages of sympathy to the families of the victims and the Nigerian Air Force.
