Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the military aircraft crash in Ondo State that claimed the lives of several military personnel and civilians aboard the aircraft.
Musa described the incident as a devastating loss to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the country, saying the investigation would establish what caused the crash and help strengthen safety measures across military aviation operations.
“A comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate crash has been ordered to ascertain the cause and ensure all necessary operational safety protocols are reinforced across our military aviation units,” the minister said in a statement issued on Monday.
Musa said he received news of the crash with a “profound sense of grief and heavy heart,” describing the deceased military personnel as dedicated patriots who served the country.
“The loss of these valiant patriots is an irreparable blow not only to the military high command and their comrades-in-arms, but to the entire Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
According to the defence minister, the officers and airmen who died in the crash represented the values expected of members of the Armed Forces.
“These fine officers and men exemplify the highest standards of military professionalism, loyalty, and commitment to the defence of our Fatherland,” Musa said.
He extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the Armed Forces and, most importantly, the families, friends and colleagues of the military personnel who died.
“We share in your immense grief and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with you during this tragic hour,” he said.
Musa also acknowledged the civilians who were aboard the aircraft, expressing sympathy to their families.
“Our hearts also go out to the families of the civilians on board the ill-fated aircraft; we share your grief,” the minister said.
He prayed for the souls of those who died and asked God to give their families, members of the military and Nigerians the strength to cope with the loss.
“We pray that the Almighty God grants the souls of the departed eternal repose and gives their families, the military community, and all Nigerians the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Musa said.
The minister’s statement came after President Tinubu declared three days of national mourning over the crash.
Tinubu also directed that flags be flown at half-mast across the country as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives.
The aircraft was on what authorities described as a routine mission from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State shortly after 9 a.m.
Tinubu described the crash as a painful moment for the country and the Armed Forces, highlighting the risks military personnel face while carrying out their duties.
“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 statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
The investigation ordered by the Defence Minister is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and identify any measures required to improve operational safety across Nigeria’s military aviation units.
