Northern governors mourn 32 military personnel killed in Ondo NAF crash

The Northern Nigeria Governors’ Forum has expressed sadness over the death of 32 military personnel in the Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Chairman of the forum and Gombe State Governor, Muhammad Yahaya, conveyed the governors’ condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces and the families of those who died.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director-General of Press Affairs at the Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, Yahaya described the incident as a tragic reminder of the sacrifices routinely made by Nigerian military personnel in the service and defence of the nation.

He said the personnel who died paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, stressing that their bravery and contributions to the country would remain remembered.

Yahaya also commended the Federal Government for its response to the crash, particularly the order for a comprehensive investigation into its cause and the deployment of search-and-rescue teams.

The governor praised Tinubu for declaring three days of national mourning and ordering that the national flag be flown at half-mast in honour of the deceased.

He described the measures as “a fitting tribute to their service and sacrifice.”

Yahaya also extended his condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, as well as officers, airmen and airwomen of the Nigerian Air Force and the families and colleagues of the victims.

“We pray Almighty God to grant repose to the souls of the fallen heroes and give their families, colleagues and the entire Armed Forces the strength and fortitude to bear this monumental loss,” he said.

The forum’s chairman further called on Nigerians to continue praying for members of the Armed Forces as they carry out their duties and face the dangers associated with protecting the nation.