ABUJA — The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has expressed profound grief over the tragic crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft in Ondo State, which claimed the lives of military personnel and passengers aboard.
The incident occurred on Monday when an ATR-42 surveillance and transport plane, tail number NGR 931, went down in a swampy area near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, located within the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, NGF Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims on behalf of all 36 state governors and the Nigerian public.
"On behalf of the 36 State Governors and the citizens of Nigeria, the NGF extends its deepest condolences to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen officers and personnel," AbdulRazaq said. "The Forum also conveys its heartfelt sympathies to the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force and the entire Armed Forces of Nigeria during this period of national mourning."
The NGF commended the fallen personnel for paying the ultimate sacrifice in service to the country, noting that their gallantry, bravery, and dedication to national security would remain etched in national memory.
The governors prayed for comfort and fortitude for the bereaved families and the nation as they navigate what they described as an immense and painful loss.
Military authorities confirmed that no survivors were found among those on board. In a formal briefing on Tuesday, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the fatalities and stated that search-and-rescue procedures were activated immediately in coordination with relevant authorities.
In response to the tragedy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared three days of national mourning, directing that national flags fly at half-mast nationwide in honour of the deceased personnel.
Defence authorities have commenced full-scale investigations to establish the exact cause of the crash as operations continue at the site.
