Igbokoda:Abuja The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has clarified reports regarding the number of individuals on board its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, which crashed on Monday in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, stated that official records confirm 25 persons were on board the aircraft. This included 20 passengers and five active crew members, with two non-active crew members counted among the passengers.
Ejodame explained that reports suggesting 32 individuals may have resulted from a misunderstanding of standard aviation terminology. The term ’25 souls on board, inclusive of seven crew’ refers to a total of 25 people, including the crew, rather than 25 passengers plus seven crew members.
He noted that the civilians on board were family members of officers traveling to the same location. The NAF released the verified figures and names of those on board following search and recovery operations and interactions with the affected families.
While mourning the tragic loss, Ejodame expressed gratitude for the sympathy and support received from Nigerians and well-wishers. He emphasized that those lost were not just numbers but cherished lives and their loss is deeply felt across the service and the nation.
The NAF remains engaged with the bereaved families, offering support as they cope with this difficult time. A comprehensive investigation into the crash is ongoing, with further information to be shared based on the findings.
Ejodame urged the media and public to report on the tragedy with sensitivity and respect for the affected families’ privacy. Despite the significant loss, NAF personnel continue their operations across various regions, facing substantial risks to ensure national security and citizen protection.
The service honors the dedication and sacrifice of its personnel and reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of its members and their families.