The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the manifest of the 25 persons who lost their lives in the crash of its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed profound grief over the tragedy, describing it as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families, loved ones, and colleagues of the deceased and assured them of the service’s full support during this difficult time.
According to the NAF, the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. The aircraft had 25 people on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers. Search and rescue operations were immediately launched in collaboration with relevant authorities, but no survivors were found.
Air Marshal Aneke said a comprehensive investigation has been ordered to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash, adding that the Air Force would continue to provide verified updates as investigations progress.
Manifest of Victims
Crew
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 urged the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families.
Meanwhile, a condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies, and members of the public wishing to pay their respects and convey messages of sympathy to the families of the deceased and the Nigerian Air Force.
The tragic loss of the 25 personnel and passengers has drawn condolences from across the country, as tributes continue to pour in for those who died in service to the nation.
