The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of the 25 people killed in the crash of its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State, confirming that there were no survivors.
The aircraft crashed on Monday, October 5, while conducting a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. According to the NAF, five crew members and 20 passengers were on board.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the service said search-and-rescue procedures were activated immediately after the accident in coordination with relevant authorities.
However, no survivor was found.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the crash as “a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation” and expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims.
Aneke also assured the bereaved families of the Nigerian Air Force’s full support.
The Chief of the Air Staff has directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The NAF said it would provide verified updates as the investigation progresses and urged the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information.
Full list of victims
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
- Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus
- Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye
- Flying Officer IM Adeshina
- Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F
- Master Warrant Officer Matini BA
- Warrant Officer Nuhu FS
- Flight Sergeant James RB
- Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI
- Sergeant Ani AE
- Sergeant Izibenikien SI
- Sergeant Alafuka C
- Sergeant Mbadugha AN
- Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC
- Lance Corporal Eledan GE
- Mrs Ezeh Nneka
- Godstmine Tarabina
- Joy Micheal
- Sunday Micheal
- Ukeme David
- Gideon Omotola
The NAF also announced that a condolence register had been opened at its headquarters in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
The crash has drawn widespread mourning, with the circumstances surrounding the accident now subject to the investigation ordered by the Air Force
