President Tinubu declares three days of mourning for NAF Air personnel killed in Ondo crash
President Bola Tinubu has declared a three-day mourning for members of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft, who lost their lives when their aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje LGA of Ondo state.
This was disclosed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday.
President Tinubu also directed that flags be flown at half-mast throughout the nation, to show respect for the officers, who paid the ultimate prize in the service to Nigeria..
A NAF ATR-42 aircraft carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members crashed on Monday morning near a naval base in the Igbokoda community.
President Tinubu said the crash was a“painful moment” for the country’s armed forces, while praising the NAF for activating a search and rescue operation after the accident.
“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,” the statement reads.
“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 sent out his condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved in the crash.
He further expressed condolences to the chief of air staff, Sunday Aneke and officers, airmen and airwomen of the NAF.
“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,” he said.
Tinubu assured that the NAF will continue enjoying its administration’s support as it carries out its role of providing security to Nigeria
