A Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft carrying 32 people has crashed near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, prompting a major search and rescue operation. Local outlet Premium Times has reported that all 32 people aboard are believed to have died, although there has been no official confirmation of casualties.
Details of the crash
The aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it disappeared at 9.13am local time on Monday morning. It was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo said air traffic controllers were unable to contact the aircraft by radio after it disappeared, and later confirmed that the wreckage had been located close to the Naval Base in Igbokoda.
Locals told the Associated Press that the aircraft crashed near a river and that part of it was sinking in the water. Witness Akinbulejo Pius said: "We heard something like a thunder strike. The plane cleared some trees. We found some body parts, some clothes and shoes."
President's response
President Bola Tinubu issued a statement expressing "profound sadness" over the incident, offering condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved, as well as the Nigerian Air Force. He referred to the "repose of the souls of the gallant officers" and described the incident as an "unfortunate loss", but did not provide a death toll or explicitly confirm how many people had died.
Mr Tinubu said: "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."
Investigation ordered
The president said the Chief of Air Staff had briefed him following the crash and that he had ordered an investigation into its cause. He added: "I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences."
The Nigerian Air Force said search and rescue operations were launched in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies. Mr Tinubu praised the Nigerian Air Force for activating the search and rescue operation and commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their response at the scene. The Nigerian military has previously used ATR-42 aircraft for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, as well as transporting personnel and supplies.
