Nigeria Air Force Sets Up Panel of Investigation
Following the loss of 32 personnel and passengers caused by NAF 931, the ATR-42 twin-engine turboprop of the Nigerian Air Force recently at Naval Base, Igbokoda Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with a routine mission from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos State, the Nigerian Air Force has formally constituted a board of investigative inquiry to ascertain the factual cause of a military aircraft crash that occurred in the South West Region of the country.
Appointed to chair the board of investigation is Air Vice Marshal Ebimobo Ebiowe, the Superintendent of Standards and Evaluation.
The spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that an overhaul investigation about the recent military aircraft crash is ongoing and urged the public to remain resolute while the appointed official gives an accurate report concerning the fatal crash.
“A board of inquiry has been set up. Immediately after the aircraft crashed, we activated the board of specialists. The Superintendent of Standards and Evaluation is automatically the chairman of the board. It’s a permanent appointment. They must be present on the ground during the recovery process, as this phase is integral to the investigation.
An eyewitness said the air traffic controller lost contact shortly after takeoff. All attempts to raise the aircraft failed. Wreckage was later found partially sinking in a river near Igbokoda. They also noted convincingly that they heard a noise like thunder and the plane cleared some trees before crashing.
According to a reliable source, the aircraft is deeply submerged in the swamp and has been in use for the past 16 years and 7 months.
Reports indicate that the aircraft has logged 5,000 flight hours over the years.
After three days of the tragedy, the executive governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, visited the scene of the incident on Wednesday; he also visited the personnel of the Nigerian Navy and Air Force.
He directed the immediate recovery and search for the victims and the wreckage.
Meanwhile, the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has consoled the family of the bereaved citizens and gallant officers.
He said, “This tragedy is a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation. Every day, our Air Force personnel risk their lives to ensure Nigeria’s security. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Behind every uniform is a family. A spouse, child, parent, brother, or sister expected their loved one to return home. Nigeria grieves with them”.
Honouring the fallen heroes, the Nigerian flag was flown at half-mast throughout the country for the past three days to show respect and honour to the military and the deceased.
