The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has expressed deep shock over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
Oluyede, on behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, commiserated with the families and loved ones of those involved in the accident, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force and the entire military community.
The aircraft was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when the accident occurred. Military personnel and some family members were said to be on board.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Director, Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, the CDS described the incident as a painful loss to the Armed Forces and the nation.
“This is indeed a painful loss to the entire Armed Forces and the nation at large,” Oluyede said.
“Our personnel give their all daily to keep Nigeria safe. Their courage and sacrifices will never be forgotten.”
The Defence Chief said an investigation would be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash, in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He also disclosed that search-and-rescue operations involving the Nigerian Air Force, sister services and relevant emergency agencies were ongoing at the crash site.
Oluyede assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces remained committed to its constitutional responsibility of protecting the country despite the tragedy.
He said the sacrifice of the personnel who lost their lives would continue to inspire the Armed Forces in the discharge of their duties to the nation.
The CDS urged members of the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information as official procedures continued.
He also appealed to Nigerians to respect the privacy of the affected families as they come to terms with the loss.
Oluyede prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died and asked God to grant their families the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
