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Nigeria is mourning after a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed near Igbokoda in Ondo State, killing everyone on board, according to official statements and current reporting.
The Nigerian Air Force has released the names of the crew and passengers who died in the October 5 crash. The aircraft was travelling on a routine mission from Benin in Edo State to Lagos when air traffic controllers lost contact with it.
What Happened
The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, went down in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State. Emergency and search-and-rescue teams were activated after contact was lost, and the wreckage was located in difficult coastal and swampy terrain.
The Air Force said there were 25 people aboard the aircraft: five crew members and 20 passengers. No survivors were found.
Names Released
The Air Force identified the five crew members as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, Warrant Officer Abubakar A and Corporal Uguru HC. It also released the names of the passengers who died.
The service urged the public to rely on verified information and avoid speculation while the investigation continues, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
Tinubu Declares National Mourning
President Bola Tinubu declared three days of national mourning and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast. He also directed the Nigerian Air Force to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
The announcement reflects the national significance of the tragedy, particularly because the aircraft was carrying military personnel and other passengers on an operational mission.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not announced a definitive cause. Investigators will need to examine the aircraft, flight data, weather, maintenance history and communications records before drawing conclusions.
Until those findings are released, speculation should be treated cautiously. The immediate priorities are supporting the victims’ families, preserving evidence and establishing how the accident occurred.
Sources: Nigerian Air Force and Channels Television, October 6, 2026; Reuters, October 5, 2026.
Tags: Nigeria aircraft crash, Nigerian Air Force, Ondo State, Nigeria news, aviation
