NAF aircraft crash: Aiyedatiwa mobilises support for rescue operations


Security

GOV. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has expressed sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.

This is contained in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Monday in Akure.

The statement directed relevant state agencies to provide full logistical and human support for the ongoing search and rescue operations.

It noted that the aircraft, an ATR-42 with tail number NGR 931, was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed in a swampy area opposite the Naval Base in Igbokoda.

The statement said the governor sympathised with the Chief of Air Staff, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), and families of the personnel and passengers on board of the aircraft.

According to the statement, Aiyedatiwa is in contact with the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force, Ilaje Local Government Chairman, Mr Maurice Oripelaye, and security agencies at the scene.

It stated that the governor had directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Ministry of Health and relevant security agencies to immediately mobilise resources to support the Nigerian Air Force and other emergency agencies.

“The governor has also directed that the area be cordoned off and secured to allow for smooth and unhindered rescue operations,” the statement said.

It also appealed to residents of Igbokoda and adjoining communities to remain calm; cooperate with emergency responders; and refrain from spreading unverified information.

The statement said the state government would continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information became available from the Nigerian Air Force.

“We pray for the safety of our gallant officers and for the success of the rescue efforts,” the statement says. (NAN)

A.I

Oct. 5, 2026

Tags: Ebenezer Adeniyan GOV. Lucky Aiyedatiwa Mr Maurice Oripelaye