News Investigators/ The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed grief over the tragic crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, which claimed the lives of all 32 persons on board.
The forum Chairman, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed the sadness in a statement issued by the NGF Director, Media and Strategic Communications, Mr Yunusa Tanko, on Tuesday in Abuja.
“On behalf of the 36 state governors and the citizens of Nigeria, the NGF extends its deepest condolences to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen officers and personnel.
“The Forum also conveys its heartfelt sympathies to the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria during this period of national mourning,” he said.
Mr AbdulRazaq commended the ultimate sacrifice of the military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, noting that their bravery and dedication to national security will always be remembered.
He prayed for comfort and fortitude for the bereaved families and the nation as they navigate the painful loss.
NAN reports that President Bola Tinubu declared a three-day national mourning for the personnel who died in the crash.
Tinubu also directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect for the deceased officers.
The Nigerian Air Force released the names of five crew members and 20 passengers who lost their lives in the 931 aircraft accident.
In a statement signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, the NAF disclosed that the aircraft had 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.
According to the Air Force, the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.
It added that search-and-rescue procedures were immediately activated, with response efforts conducted in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for all persons on board.
No survivors have been found, according to the statement.
NAN