The Senate Committee on Air Force has demanded a comprehensive briefing from the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on the circumstances surrounding the crash of an aircraft with 32 people on board at Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Osita Ngwu, made the demand in a statement on Monday as search-and-rescue operations continued at the crash site.
Ngwu described the incident as a “huge loss to our nation”, assuring that the Senate would closely monitor the rescue efforts and subsequent investigation into the cause of the crash.
The aircraft was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the incident occurred.
According to the senator, the Nigerian Air Force and other emergency agencies activated search-and-rescue operations following the crash, with efforts continuing in coordination with relevant authorities.
He commended the Air Force, first responders and other emergency agencies for their swift response, urging them to sustain the operation and provide immediate assistance to those affected by the incident.
Ngwu expressed concern over the fate of the military personnel and other occupants aboard the aircraft, stressing that their service and sacrifice to the country would not be forgotten.
He said the Senate committee would engage the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force to obtain a detailed briefing on the incident, including the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The senator also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and rely on official information from the Nigerian Air Force and other competent authorities as the search-and-rescue operation continues.
He extended condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, officers and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, as well as the families and loved ones affected by the incident.
“This is a huge loss to our nation,” Ngwu said, assuring the Nigerian Air Force and the affected families of the Senate committee’s solidarity at the difficult moment.
He prayed for the repose of those who may have lost their lives and for strength for their families, colleagues and loved ones to bear the loss.
