By Clement Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a three-day national mourning for Nigerian Air Force personnel who died in a military aircraft crash in Ondo State on Monday.
The President also directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast across the country in honour of the deceased officers.
The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
According to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members when the accident occurred on Monday (today).
Tinubu, who expressed profound sadness over the incident, described the crash as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.
“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 in a condolence message to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the entire Nigerian Air Force.
The President said the Chief of Air Staff had briefed him on the incident, adding that he had directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
He said the investigation was necessary to establish what led to the accident and prevent a recurrence.
Tinubu also commended the Nigerian Air Force for promptly activating a search and rescue operation following the crash.
The Nigerian Air Force is expected to release the names of the deceased personnel after their families have been contacted.
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