President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sadness following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday morning.
Several people were feared dead after the helicopter crashed in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The helicopter crashed in a swampy area within the Igbokoda creek.
Although the exact number of casualties could not be immediately, the source said some NAF personnel and crew members who were occupants of the helicopter at the time, were believed to have died in the crash.
However, reacting to the incident through a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members on board, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.
“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 said the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident and disclosed that he had directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
He said the investigation was necessary to help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate search-and-rescue operation following the crash.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss,” he said.
Tinubu further assured the Nigerian Air Force of his administration’s continued support as the service carries out its role in securing the country.
He also commended first responders and the Ondo State Government for their swift response at the crash site.
