The Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria and Overseas has condoled with the families of victims of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) plane crash in Ondo State.
The aircraft, an ATR 42 operated by the NAF 931, crashed at Igbokoda area of Ondo State while conveying 25 personnel and passengers from Benin to Lagos.
The Society described the incident as a painful loss to the nation, commiserating with the families of the deceased, their colleagues and loved ones, as well as the leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the National President of the Society, Mosediq Kazeem, expressed profound sorrow over the crash on behalf of the National Executive Council and the entire Ansar-Ud-Deen family.
Kazeem said the incident was particularly distressing at a time when personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces continue to make sacrifices in the service of the country.
He stated that the Society honoured the courage, patriotism and sacrifices of members of the armed forces who dedicate their lives to defending and securing Nigeria.
According to the statement, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones and with the Nigerian Air Force at this difficult time.”
He prayed that Almighty Allah would grant the deceased eternal rest and give their families the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.
The Society urged Nigerians to pray for the nation and those involved in the rescue, recovery and investigation efforts.
It called on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash and take appropriate measures to prevent a recurrence.