Isaac Samuel
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the identities of the 25 people killed in the crash involving its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The aircraft, which had five crew members and 20 passengers on board, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed in Igbokoda.
The NAF, in a statement by its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said no survivors had been found as search-and-rescue operations continued.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, describing the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.
He directed a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, while assuring the affected families of the full support of the service.
The victims identified by the NAF are:
Crew members
Squadron Leader MI Aburime — Flight Captain
Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje — Co-pilot
Flight Lieutenant IS Bako — Co-pilot
Warrant Officer Abubakar A — Aircraft Technician
Corporal Uguru HC — Aircraft Technician
Passengers
6. Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus
7. Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye
8. Flying Officer IM Adeshina
9. Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F
10. Master Warrant Officer Matini BA
11. Warrant Officer Nuhu FS
12. Flight Sergeant James RB
13. Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI
14. Sergeant Ani AE
15. Sergeant Izibenikien SI
16. Sergeant Alafuka C
17. Sergeant Mbadugha AN
18. Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC
19. Lance Corporal Eledan GE
20. Mrs Ezeh Nneka
21. Godstmine Tarabina
22. Joy Micheal
23. Sunday Micheal
24. Ukeme David
25. Gideon Omotola
The NAF said search-and-rescue efforts had been activated in coordination with relevant authorities following the crash.
Aneke urged the public to rely on verified information and refrain from speculation, stressing the need to respect the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
The Air Force said it would provide further updates as verified information becomes available.
A condolence register has also been opened at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja for officials, diplomatic representatives, security chiefs and members of the public wishing to pay their respects.
