The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience as the Nigerian Air Force begins a thorough investigation into the crash of its ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Aneke made the appeal on Thursday when he led senior NAF officials to the crash site to assess ongoing search, recovery and investigative operations.
The aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos, crashed into a swamp on Monday. The accident claimed the lives of all 25 people on board.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Chief assured the families of the deceased and the public that all relevant evidence would be secured, documented, preserved and examined before any conclusion was reached on the cause of the crash.
Speaking during the visit, Aneke said his presence at the site was to assess the welfare of personnel and monitor recovery efforts and accountability.
He disclosed that the NAF had directed its safety and evaluation team to assemble a high-level panel comprising military and civilian aviation safety experts, including representatives of the National Transportation Safety Board, NTSB, alongside experienced officers and other relevant specialists.
The Air Chief cautioned against speculation, urging the public to allow experts to conduct a comprehensive investigation in line with established procedures.
He described the incident as a major loss, noting that no words could adequately console families who had lost their loved ones.
Aneke assured the bereaved families that the Nigerian Air Force would provide the necessary support, adding that the service would leave no stone unturned in addressing aviation safety concerns.
He also commended Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and residents of Igbokoda for their support for the recovery team.
The Air Chief further acknowledged the contributions of personnel of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, National Emergency Management Agency, Ondo State Government, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Amotekun Corps, Hi-Tech Construction Company, local authorities, community leaders and volunteers involved in the operation.
Efforts to recover the wreckage and victims from the swamp were ongoing as the investigation commenced.
