The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of the 25 people killed in the crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The Air Force said the victims comprised five crew members and 20 passengers who were on board the aircraft when it crashed during a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said no survivor had been found following the crash.
The five crew members killed were identified as 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.
The 20 passengers were identified as 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 NAF said search-and-rescue procedures were immediately activated after the accident, with response efforts conducted in coordination with relevant authorities to locate and account for everyone on board.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the victims, describing the crash as a “deeply 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 establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF also said it would continue to provide verified updates as the investigation progresses and urged the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information.
A condolence register has been opened at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security chiefs and other sympathisers wishing to pay their respects to the deceased and their families.
