Precious Nwonu, Enugu
The Minister of Defence, Gen Christopher Musa (retd.), has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the military aircraft crash in Ondo State that claimed the lives of several military personnel and civilians.
Musa said the probe would determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and identify measures required to strengthen aviation safety across the Nigerian Armed Forces.
In a statement issued on Monday, the minister described the incident as a painful loss to the military and the country, commending the deceased personnel for their service and commitment to Nigeria.
He said, “A comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate crash has been ordered to ascertain the cause and ensure all necessary operational safety protocols are reinforced across our military aviation units.”
Musa expressed condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the Armed Forces, and the families, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased.
He also extended his sympathy to the families of civilians who were reportedly aboard the aircraft.
The minister prayed for strength for the bereaved families and members of the military community as they cope with the loss.
The development followed President Tinubu’s declaration of three days of national mourning over the crash.
Tinubu directed that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the victims.
The aircraft, which was described by authorities as being on a routine mission from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos, crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State shortly after 9am on Monday.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the crash as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.
Tinubu said members of the Nigerian Air Force routinely put their lives at risk in the service of the country, adding that the sacrifices of those who died would not be forgotten.
The crash has prompted ongoing efforts by relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and provide further information on the victims.