Amanze Chinonye
The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that all 25 people aboard an aircraft that crashed in Ondo State have died and released the names of the five crew members and 20 passengers, Prime Business Africa reports.
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The ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, the Air Force said in a statement on Tuesday. Search-and-rescue operations were immediately activated in coordination with relevant authorities, but no survivors were found.
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The five crew members were identified as Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the flight captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje and Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, the co-pilots; Warrant Officer Abubakar A., an aircraft technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, also an aircraft technician.
The 20 passengers were identified as Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus, Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye, Flying Officer IM Adeshina, Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F, Master Warrant Officer Matini BA, Warrant Officer Nuhu FS, Flight Sergeant James RB, Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI, Sergeant Ani AE, Sergeant Izibenikien SI, Sergeant Alafuka C, Sergeant Mbadugha AN, Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC, Lance Corporal Eledan GE, Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke has ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident, the Air Force said. The service said it would provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses.
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The Air Force urged the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the victims’ families. It also said a condolence register had been opened at its headquarters in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security chiefs and other well-wishers.
President Bola Tinubu on Monday ordered an immediate investigation into the crash and declared three days of national mourning for the victims. The cause of the accident has not been established.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
