Search and Rescue Operations Continue as Military Mourns Personnel on Routine Mission
The Defence Headquarters has ordered an investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos and was carrying military personnel and some family members, according to the DHQ.
Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, said on Tuesday that the investigation was ordered by President Bola Tinubu to establish the cause of the crash.
He said search and rescue operations involving the Nigerian Air Force, sister services and emergency agencies were ongoing at the scene.
Uba described the incident as a “painful loss” to the Armed Forces and the nation, while extending condolences to the families and loved ones of those involved.
The DHQ assured Nigerians that the crash would not deter the Armed Forces from carrying out their constitutional responsibility of securing the country.
It also appealed to the public to avoid speculation and respect the privacy of affected families while official procedures continue.
The DHQ statement did not disclose the number of people on board, the extent of casualties or the circumstances surrounding the crash. It said the ongoing investigation would determine what led to the accident.
The military prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and strength for their families.