Governors' Forum Laments Tragic Loss in Ondo Air Accident

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has conveyed its profound sorrow regarding the devastating crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft. This tragic incident, which took place in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, resulted in the loss of all 25 individuals who were on board.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, who chairs the NGF, articulated the forum's grief in a statement released on Tuesday in Abuja. The statement was issued through Yunusa Abdullahi, the NGF's Director of Media and Strategic Communications.

According to a report by The PUNCH, the military aircraft vanished from radar screens shortly after its departure. A senior Air Traffic Controller, who was familiar with the aircraft's final flight, confirmed this detail. The aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, was en route from Benin City, the capital of Edo State, to Lagos when air traffic controllers lost communication with it around 9:13 am. Subsequently, it crashed into a swampy area within Igbokoda.

Speaking on behalf of Nigeria's 36 state governors and its citizens, Governor AbdulRazaq extended the NGF's deepest condolences to the grieving families, colleagues, and loved ones of the deceased officers and personnel. He also offered heartfelt sympathies to the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria during this period of national mourning.

AbdulRazaq lauded the ultimate sacrifice made by the military personnel who died in the line of duty, emphasizing that their courage and commitment to national security would forever be remembered. He concluded by praying for comfort and strength for the bereaved families and the nation as they grapple with this painful loss.

Following the incident, President Bola Tinubu declared a three-day period of national mourning for the fallen NAF personnel. He also mandated that flags across the country be flown at half-mast as a gesture of respect for the officers. Other prominent figures, including an APC chieftain, Governor Diri, and Atiku Abubakar, have also offered their condolences.

On Tuesday, the NAF officially confirmed that all 25 persons aboard the aircraft had perished. Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, stated that the aircraft was carrying five crew members and 20 passengers. He further noted that search-and-rescue operations were promptly initiated, with coordinated efforts involving relevant authorities to locate and account for all individuals. Regrettably, the statement confirmed that no survivors were found.