Tinubu mourns NAF personnel in Ondo jet crash, orders thorough investigation
By KEMI KASUMU
According to The DEFENDER’s findings, 32 persons (25 passengers and seven crew members) made up of six officers, airmen and airwomen as well as some civilians including the sister to wife of the Chief of Air Staff lost their lives to the unfortunate incident.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft in Ondo State on Monday morning, October 5, 2026, ordering an immediate and thorough investigation into the cause of the mishap.
The aircraft crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
According to The DEFENDER’s findings, 32 persons (25 passengers and seven crew members) made up of six officers, airmen and airwomen as well as some civilians including the sister to wife of the Chief of Air Staff lost their lives to the unfortunate incident.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the families of all that were involved in the crash.
He also commiserated with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, as well as officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force over the tragic incident.
Describing the crash as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation, the President paid tribute to Nigerian military personnel who routinely put their lives at risk in the service of the country.
“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 President said the Chief of the Air Staff had briefed him on the incident, following which he directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Tinubu said the investigation was necessary not only to determine what caused the accident but also to help prevent a recurrence.
“The Chief of Air Staff has briefed me, and I have directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences,” he said.
Tinubu commends rescue efforts
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force for promptly activating its Search and Rescue operation following the crash.
He praised the swift intervention of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the scene of the accident, acknowledging their efforts in responding to the emergency.
“I commend the Nigerian Air Force for activating an immediate Search and Rescue operation following the accident,” Tinubu said.
He added, “I also commend the swift response of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the crash site.”
While mourning the personnel affected by the crash, President Tinubu prayed for the repose of the souls of the “gallant officers” who lost their lives and asked God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the strength to cope with the loss.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the gallant officers and for Almighty God to grant their families and the Nigerian Air Force the fortitude to bear the unfortunate loss,” the President said.
President assures NAF of continued support
Tinubu further assured the Nigerian Air Force of the Federal Government’s continued support as the service carries out its constitutional responsibility of protecting the country.
He said the administration remained committed to supporting the NAF in its critical role in safeguarding Nigeria and its citizens.
“I assure the Nigerian Air Force of the continued support of our administration as they continue their vital role in securing our nation,” he said.
The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, and dated October 5, 2026.
The crash occurred on Monday morning as the NAF aircraft was undertaking the Benin-to-Lagos routine mission, with the incident prompting an immediate emergency response and search-and-rescue operation. The President’s directive for a thorough investigation is expected to establish the circumstances that led to the crash and identify measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
