Igbokoda Air Crash: Nejo Mourns Fallen NAF Officers, Condoles Families
The Nigeria Democratic Congress candidate for Ondo North Senatorial District, Hon. Myson Adeyemi Nejo, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of officers of the Nigerian Air Force in the aircraft crash at Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Nejo, in a condolence statement issued on Wednesday, described the incident as a “painful national tragedy”, while extending his sympathies to the Nigerian Air Force, the families of the deceased officers, their colleagues and the people of Ondo State.
The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, was reportedly carrying 32 people—25 passengers and seven crew members—when it lost contact with Air Traffic Controllers at about 9:13am on Monday, October 5, 2026.
The aircraft, which was reportedly on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos, subsequently crashed in a swampy area close to the Naval Base in Igbokoda, prompting immediate search-and-rescue operations.
Reacting to the incident, Nejo said he received the news with shock and disbelief, noting that the loss of military personnel dedicated to the service of the nation was particularly painful.
“This is not merely a tragedy; it is a painful loss that has touched the hearts of an entire nation. The loss of gallant personnel committed to the service and protection of our dear country is deeply heartbreaking,” he said.
The NDC candidate also expressed sadness over reports that one of the pilots had married only two weeks before the crash, describing the development as a painful reminder of the lives, hopes and aspirations cut short by the tragedy.
Nejo commended residents of Ondo State, the Ilaje Local Government authorities, the Nigerian Navy and other emergency responders for their swift response and efforts to secure the crash site and support rescue operations.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and urged God to grant their families, colleagues and the entire Nigerian Air Force the strength to cope with the loss.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force family and all those who lost their loved ones in this tragic incident.
“May God comfort the bereaved families and grant eternal rest to our fallen heroes,” Nejo added.
Signed:
Hon. Myson Adeyemi Nejo
NDC Candidate, Ondo North Senatorial District
