Tragedy in Nigeria: Military Aircraft Crashes in Ondo State, Killing All 32 Onboard

LAGOS — A tragedy unfolded in southwestern Nigeria when a Nigerian Air Force aircraft carrying 32 people crashed in Ondo state, leaving no survivors. The fatal incident occurred as the passenger aircraft was carrying out a routine support mission, traveling from Benin City toward Nigeria's economic capital, Lagos.

According to official statements from President Bola Tinubu and military authorities, the ill-fated ATR-42 twin-turboprop aircraft went down shortly after 9:00 am local time near the riverside community of Igbokoda in the Ilaje local government area. The flight had 25 passengers and seven crew members on board.

Sudden Disappearance off Radar and Devastating Impact

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo confirmed that the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control before crashing in a heavily forested, marshy zone near a local naval base. Eyewitnesses in surrounding villages reported hearing a loud noise resembling thunder before seeing thick smoke billow into the sky.

Locals who reached the crash site near the river reported seeing scattered wreckage, with parts of the airframe submerged in the water. Emergency responders, security personnel, and search-and-rescue teams dispatched to the area swiftly recovered remains and secured the perimeter.

Presidential Condolences and Investigation Ordered

President Bola Tinubu expressed deep grief over the loss of life, describing the tragedy as a painful moment for the armed forces and the nation.

"The President extends his deepest condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved," his office stated.

The Nigerian Air Force has ordered an immediate investigation into the cause of the disaster. Though the ATR-42 is primarily deployed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as military personnel transport, officials have not yet released preliminary findings regarding technical issues or weather factors.