The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of the 25 personnel and passengers who died in Monday’s crash involving an ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Ondo State.
The aircraft crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area, minutes after departing Benin for Lagos on a routine mission.
In a statement issued Tuesday, NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the aircraft had 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.
The crew members were 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.
Read Also: police-warn-against-unlawful-killings-as-ospac-member-faces-probe-2
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, loved ones and colleagues of the deceased, describing the crash as a painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country.
Aneke assured the bereaved families of the Service’s full support and directed a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF urged the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information as the investigation continues.
“The Nigerian Air Force will continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses,” the statement said, while appealing for respect for the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
