Ondo Military Plane Crash Prompts Three-Day National Mourning by President Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has announced a three-day period of national mourning following the tragic military aircraft crash that occurred in Ondo State on Monday, October 5. As a mark of respect for the officers and other individuals who lost their lives aboard the ill-fated flight, the President has also mandated that all national flags across the country be flown at half-mast.

According to a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved in the crash. His condolences also went out to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and all personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.

President Tinubu described the event as "a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation." He emphasized the daily sacrifices made by Air Force personnel to ensure Nigeria's security, stating, "Their sacrifice will never be forgotten." The President commended the Nigerian Air Force for its prompt activation of a Search and Rescue operation immediately after the accident. He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the souls of the brave officers and asked Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to endure this profound loss.

Furthermore, President Tinubu reassured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration's unwavering support as they continue their crucial role in safeguarding the nation. He also acknowledged the swift actions of the initial responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site.

The Presidency confirmed that the Nigerian Air Force would release the identities of the victims only after their families have been officially notified. The passenger aircraft, which was on a routine flight from Benin City to Lagos, tragically went down at Igbokoda in Ondo State shortly after 9 am.