The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the identities of the 25 people killed in the crash of its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State, confirming that there were no survivors.
The aircraft, which had five crew members and 20 passengers, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed on Monday. The NAF said search-and-rescue operations were immediately activated in coordination with relevant authorities.
Names of the five crew members
The five crew members were identified as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, flight captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, aircraft technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, aircraft technician.
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Names of the 20 passengers
The 20 passengers were Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus; Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye; Flying Officer IM Adeshina; Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F; Master Warrant Officer Matini BA; Warrant Officer Nuhu FS; Flight Sergeant James RB; Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI; Sergeant Ani AE; Sergeant Izibenikien SI; Sergeant Alafuka C; Sergeant Mbadugha AN; Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC; Lance Corporal Eledan GE; Mrs Ezeh Nneka; Godstmine Tarabina; Joy Micheal; Sunday Micheal; Ukeme David; and Gideon Omotola.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims, describing the crash as a deeply painful moment for the NAF and the country.
Aneke has directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, while the NAF said it would continue to provide verified updates as the investigation progresses. It also urged the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information.
A condolence register has also been opened at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security chiefs and other sympathisers.
The crash has prompted a three-day national mourning declared by President Bola Tinubu, with flags ordered to fly at half-mast across the country. The President also directed a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident.
