The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement has suspended all campaign activities for one week following the death of military personnel in an aircraft crash in Ondo State.
The group said the decision was made by its Grand Patron, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, as a mark of respect for the fallen officers.
The National Coordinator of the movement, Comrade Sunday Asuku, announced the decision in a statement issued on behalf of the group.
The movement said it received the crash with “profound shock and deep sorrow,” describing the deceased personnel as gallant officers who died while serving the country.
Tompolo described the incident as a “painful and monumental loss” to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the country.
“These officers paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, serving our country with courage, patriotism and unwavering commitment,” he said.
According to the statement, the Grand Patron extended his condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the government and people of Ondo State, as well as the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.
The movement also commended the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Navy, first responders and residents who participated in search and rescue efforts at the crash site.
“We join Mr. President, who has already mourned this incident, in stating that the sacrifice of our Air Force and Naval personnel who put their lives on the line daily to secure Nigeria will never be forgotten,” Tompolo said.
The group also called on the military authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
It said the investigation was necessary to establish the cause of the incident and prevent a recurrence.
“The Movement prays for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and asks Almighty God to grant their families the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the statement added.
The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement is campaigning in support of President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
The movement said its campaign activities would remain suspended for one week in honour of the fallen personnel.
“May the souls of our fallen heroes rest in perfect peace, and may God continue to protect our troops on land, air and sea,” it said.
