The Nigerian Air Force has named the 25 people killed in Monday’s aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, ordered a comprehensive investigation into the tragedy.
The victims comprised five crew members and 20 passengers who were aboard NAF aircraft NGR 931 when it crashed during a routine flight from Benin to Lagos.
There were no survivors.
The crash has plunged the Nigerian Air Force and the families of the victims into mourning, with the service assuring the bereaved families of its full support.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said search-and-rescue teams were deployed immediately after the crash in conjunction with local authorities and emergency responders.
Aneke described the incident as a deeply painful moment for the service and the nation, while directing investigators to establish the cause and circumstances of the crash.
The Air Force also appealed to Nigerians to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, saying further updates would be released as the investigation progresses.
A condolence register has been opened at NAF Headquarters in Abuja for officials, security chiefs, diplomats and other sympathisers.
Those killed
Crew
– Squadron Leader MI Aburime — Flight Captain
– Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje — Co-pilot
– Flight Lieutenant IS Bako — Co-pilot
– Warrant Officer Abubakar A — Aircraft Technician
– Corporal Uguru HC — Aircraft Technician
Passengers
– Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus
– Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye
– Flying Officer IM Adeshina
– Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F
– Master Warrant Officer Matini BA
– Warrant Officer Nuhu FS
– Flight Sergeant James RB
– Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI
– Sergeant Ani AE
– Sergeant Izibenikien SI
– Sergeant Alafuka C
– Sergeant Mbadugha AN
– Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC
– Lance Corporal Eledan GE
– Mrs Ezeh Nneka
– Godstmine Tarabina
– Joy Micheal
– Sunday Micheal
– Ukeme David
– Gideon Omotola