APC Chairman Yilwatda condoles with families, NAF over Ondo crash

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nantawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has expressed deep condolences to the families of the passengers and crew members who lost their lives in the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Yilwatda described the incident as a devastating loss, made more painful by the confirmation that there were no survivors.

“I wish to extend my deepest condolences to the families of the passengers and crew members who lost their lives in the tragic aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

This devastating loss, made even more painful by the confirmation that there were no survivors. At this difficult moment, my thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families as they confront the unimaginable pain of losing their loved ones”, he said.

Yilwatda also extended heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and all those connected to the victims. He noted that the loss of military personnel in such circumstances was a painful blow to the nation, given the sacrifices they make in the service and defence of the country.

“May God grant the families the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and comfort them in their hour of grief”, the APC Chairman prayed.

Addressing Nigerians, he called for unity in the face of the tragedy. “To all Nigerians, I share in our collective sorrow over the tragic incident. At a time like this, we must stand together in compassion and solidarity, irrespective of political, ethnic or other differences. May Almighty receive the souls of the departed, grant them eternal rest, and grant Nigeria the strength to heal from this painful tragedy. May such a devastating incident never occur again”.

The aircraft, an ATR-42 operated by the Nigerian Air Force (tall number NAF931/NGR 931), crashed on Monday, October 5, 2026, near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, while on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos. Air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:23 a.m.

The Nigerian Air Force later confirmed that all 25 people on board–five crew members and 20 passengers–perished, with no survivors found. Search -and rescue operations were immediately activated, and a comprehensive investigation has been ordered.

-9News Nigeria.