A military aircraft belonging to the Nigerian Air Force has crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with 32 people, 25 passengers and seven crew members, on board, according to the Federal Government.
The aircraft, identified with tail number NGR 931, was reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when air traffic controllers lost contact with it at about 9:13 a.m. on Monday.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed that the wreckage was subsequently located close to the Naval Base in Igbokoda.
The Nigerian Air Force also confirmed the incident, saying it had immediately activated search and rescue operations in collaboration with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not disclosed the identities of those on board or confirmed the number of casualties.
The Ondo State Police Command has urged residents of Igbokoda and adjoining communities to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information while rescue efforts continue.
Keyamo said he had spoken with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and pledged the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s full cooperation and assistance in the ongoing rescue operation.
Further details are expected from the Nigerian Air Force and other relevant authorities as the search and rescue operation progresses.
Details coming…
Source: Federal Government/Nigerian Air Force statements, corroborated by multiple reports
