President Bola Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning for Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in Monday’s military aircraft crash in Ondo State.
According to The PUNCH, Tinubu also directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country throughout the mourning period. This measure is a mark of respect for the deceased officers.
The directive was contained in a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Aircraft was carrying 32 people
The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State. It was on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos.
The aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members.
Tinubu described the incident as a painful loss to the Armed Forces and the country.
“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,” the President said.
Tinubu orders investigation
The President said he had received a briefing from the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke. Following this, he directed the Air Force to immediately investigate the cause of the crash.
“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” Tinubu said.
He also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating search and rescue operations following the accident.
President mourns NAF personnel
Tinubu expressed condolences to Aneke and officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force over the deaths.
The Air Force is expected to release the identities of the personnel involved after their families have been formally notified.
