Christopher Musa Says Investigation Will Establish Cause and Strengthen Military Aviation Safety
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the military aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, which claimed the lives of several Nigerian Air Force personnel and civilians.
Musa, in a statement issued on Monday, said the investigation would determine the cause of the crash and ensure that necessary operational safety protocols are reinforced across military aviation units.
He described the deaths as an “irreparable blow” to the military and the nation, praising the deceased officers and airmen for their professionalism, loyalty and commitment to national service.
The minister extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces leadership, and the families, loved ones and colleagues of the deceased. He also expressed sympathy to the families of the civilians who were on board the aircraft.
President Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning and directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the victims.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed near Igbokoda shortly after 9:00am on Monday.
Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation, saying the sacrifice of Air Force personnel who put their lives on the line to secure Nigeria would not be forgotten.