All 32 people on a Nigerian military plane that crashed on Monday are feared dead.
This information comes from a statement by President Bola Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
Mr Onanuga's statement is titled “President Tinubu mourns NAF personnel in Ondo jet crash…” He said the president “expressed profound sadness over the crash.”
PREMIUM TIMES reported that the crash happened in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State. The Nigerian Air Force later confirmed that the plane was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it went down.
“The President extends his deepest condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and all officers, airmen, and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force,” Mr Onanuga wrote.
He also quoted Mr Tinubu expressing his sorrow over the tragedy. “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 Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately start a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences.
“I commend the Nigerian Air Force for starting an immediate Search and Rescue operation following the accident.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the brave officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to bear this unfortunate loss.
“I assure the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of our administration as they carry out their important work in securing our nation.
“I also commend the quick response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site,” President Tinubu was quoted as saying.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇