The Defence Headquarters has commiserate with families of the victims of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crash near Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
In a statement on Monday, October 6, 2026, by Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the DHQ said it received news of crash with deep shock.
According to statement, aircraft was on routine mission from Benin City to Lagos with military personnel and some members of families on board.
“On behalf of Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Defence Headquarters wishes to extend heartfelt condolences to families and loved ones of all persons involved, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force and entire Armed Forces family.
“This is indeed a painful loss to entire Armed Forces and nation at large. Our personnel give their all daily to keep Nigeria safe. Their courage and sacrifices will never be forgotten,” statement read.
Uba said in compliance with directive of Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, investigation will be conducted to ascertain cause of accident, while Search and Rescue efforts by NAF in collaboration with sister Services and emergency agencies continue at site.
“The leadership of Armed Forces wishes to assure all Nigerians that Armed Forces will remain resolute and committed to our constitutional mandate of securing nation, despite this painful setback. The sacrifice of our fallen heroes will continue to inspire our service to nation,” he said.
He appealed to general public to refrain from speculations and to respect privacy of families affected in this difficult moment while official procedures continue.
“May souls of departed rest in perfect peace, and may God grant their families strength to bear this profound loss.”
