Peter Obi visits NAF headquarters, signs condolence register for crash victims

News, Obituaries

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has visited the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Abuja to commiserate with the organisation following the crash of a NAF aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, signed the condolence register opened at the NAF facility and commended members of the Armed Forces for the sacrifices they make in the line of duty.

The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed on October 5 while on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos. The NAF later confirmed that 25 people, comprising 20 passengers and five crew members, were on board and that there were no survivors.

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In a statement titled “My Visit to the Nigerian Air Force Facility,” Obi said the visit followed his earlier message of condolence over the crash.

“Further to my message yesterday, I visited the Nigerian Air Force facility in Abuja today to formally sign the condolence register following the unfortunate aircraft crash,” he said.

Obi said the visit provided an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made daily by members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies in the course of protecting the country.

“These courageous Nigerians put their lives on the line to defend our nation and protect our people. We must never take their service and sacrifice for granted,” he said.

He extended his condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the families, colleagues and loved ones of those who died in the crash.

“May God grant eternal rest to the departed and give their families the strength and fortitude to bear this painful loss,” Obi said.

He also prayed for the continued protection of Nigerians serving in the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

“May God continue to protect all those who serve our country,” he added.

Obi had earlier expressed sadness over the crash, describing the affected personnel as courageous men and women who devoted their lives to defending Nigeria and protecting its citizens.

The Nigerian Air Force has opened a condolence register at its Conference Centre in Kado, Abuja, for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, security agencies and other well-wishers to pay their respects.

The crash remains under investigation, with the Chief of the Air Staff directing a comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the accident. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also ordered an investigation and declared three days of national mourning for the deceased Air Force personnel.