Military aircraft crash in Ondo State kills 32 and prompts national mourning

A military aircraft crashed near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State on Monday morning while en route from Benin City to Lagos, killing 32 people including 25 passengers and seven crew members, and prompting President Bola Tinubu to declare three days of national mourning.

Witnesses reported smoke rising from the crash area and items such as clothes and shoes found near a swamp close to the site. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo said the aircraft with tail number NGR 931 disappeared from contact at 0913 hours and that efforts to raise it on radio were abortive before confirmation of the crash.

Search and rescue efforts were ongoing at the site following the accident. The aircraft has been described as an ATR-42 model which, according to its manufacturer, can carry between 30 and 50 passengers.

President Bola Tinubu offered his deepest condolences for the deceased and ordered national flags to be flown at half-mast across the country. He also directed the Air Force to begin a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

The identities of the victims have not yet been released, with authorities saying names will be published after families have been informed. The Nigerian Air Force plays a key role in the country’s military operations, including efforts to tackle armed groups and insecurity in several parts of the country.

Liberal News Analysis: What Does This Development Mean?

The crash represents a significant loss for the Nigerian Armed Forces and has immediate implications for operational readiness and public confidence in military aviation safety. The president’s directive for a thorough investigation signals an official intent to determine causes and implement measures to reduce the risk of future incidents. Ongoing search and rescue operations and the delayed release of victims’ names reflect the sensitive and procedural nature of military casualty handling.

Quick Glance: What You Need to Know

• A military ATR-42 aircraft en route from Benin City to Lagos crashed near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State on Monday morning.
• The crash resulted in 32 deaths, comprising 25 passengers and seven crew members.
• Smoke and personal items were reported at the scene, and search and rescue efforts continued after the accident.
• President Bola Tinubu declared three days of national mourning and ordered flags at half-mast.
• The Air Force has been ordered to conduct a full investigation into the cause of the crash.