Tinubu declares three-day mourning for NAF personnel killed in crash

President Bola Tinubu has declared a three-day national mourning for Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel who died in an aircraft crash in Ondo.

The President also directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast throughout the country in honour of the deceased personnel.

Tinubu expressed deep sadness over the crash of a NAF ATR-42 aircraft near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.

The aircraft, carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed.

In a condolence message to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, Tinubu described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.

He commended the personnel for their sacrifices and commitment to securing the country.

“This is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation.

“Our Air Force personnel put their lives on the line every day to secure Nigeria. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” he said.

The President said the Chief of Air Staff had briefed him on the incident.

He directed the NAF to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent future occurrences.

Tinubu also commended the NAF for promptly activating a search and rescue operation following the accident.

According to the statement, the NAF will release the names of the deceased personnel after their families have been contacted.

The condolence message was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on Oct. 5.