From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has expressed condolences to the families and loved ones of those involved in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crash near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the DHQ said it received the news of the crash with deep shock, describing the incident as a painful loss to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the country.
According to Uba, the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when the incident occurred, with military personnel and some family members on board.
On behalf of the Armed Forces, the DHQ extended its condolences to the families and loved ones of those involved in the crash, as well as the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force and the wider Armed Forces community.
The Defence Information Director said the loss was particularly painful because military personnel continue to make daily sacrifices in the service of the nation.
He assured Nigerians that, in line with the directive of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the crash.
Uba added that search and rescue operations by the Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with other military services and emergency response agencies, were ongoing at the crash site.
He said the leadership of the Armed Forces remained committed to its constitutional responsibility of protecting the nation despite the setback, adding that the sacrifices of the fallen personnel would continue to inspire the military in its service to Nigeria.
The DHQ also appealed to members of the public to avoid speculation and respect the privacy of the affected families while official procedures and investigations continue.
The Defence Headquarters prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed and for God to grant their families the strength to bear the loss.
