President Declares Three-Day National Mourning, Directs Flags to Fly at Half-Mast in Honour of Fallen Personnel.
Enugu Media Village (EMV), the Most Updated Online News Platform — October 6, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The military aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, crashed near a naval base in Igbokoda on Monday. The aircraft had 25 passengers and seven crew members on board. The Presidency has confirmed the deaths of those aboard.
President Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation, extending his condolences to the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.
“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 President said.
The President also commended the Nigerian Air Force, first responders and the Ondo State Government for their response following the crash.
In honour of the fallen personnel, President Tinubu has declared three days of national mourning and directed that national flags be flown at half-mast across the country. The NAF is expected to release the names of the deceased officers after their families have been contacted.
The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development confirmed that the aircraft, identified by tail number NGR 931, lost communication before its wreckage was located near the Naval Base in Igbokoda. The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau has also offered technical assistance to the military investigation if formally requested.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Enugu Media Village (EMV) commiserates with the families of the deceased personnel and the Nigerian Air Force, while honouring the sacrifice of those who lost their lives in service to the nation.
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