NAF SETS UP 12-MEMBER BOARD TO PROBE FATAL ATR 42 CRASH IN ONDO
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has constituted a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to investigate the crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The aircraft crashed on October 5, 2026, killing all those on board.
The NAF disclosed this in a press release on Tuesday, stating that the board would establish the circumstances surrounding the accident, determine its causes and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence.
The statement, signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, had directed sustained search and recovery operations alongside a comprehensive investigation.
It added that Air Vice Marshal F.O. Ankeli would serve as president of the investigation board, while Air Vice Marshal E.O.E. Ebiowe, head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, would coordinate the broader response.
“The 12-member board comprises experienced personnel with specialist expertise in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance, medical services and other relevant technical disciplines,” the statement read.
According to the NAF, the board also includes representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau to provide additional civilian aviation expertise.
The board is expected to examine operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors surrounding the crash.
“Its work will involve the systematic examination, documentation and preservation of relevant evidence to establish the facts and determine the immediate and underlying causes of the occurrence,” the statement added.
The investigation will also assess the emergency response, including search and rescue efforts, medical response, recovery operations and management of the crash site.
The NAF said the board would make evidence-based recommendations to address any identified deficiencies, strengthen aviation safety and reduce the likelihood of similar accidents.
On support for the bereaved families, the Service said it had established a dedicated helpline at its headquarters, under the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to provide recorded next of kin with information and clarification.
It added that administrative arrangements had been activated, including meetings with affected families and other support measures.
“The NAF recognises the public’s legitimate interest in the ongoing process and remains committed to providing appropriate updates as verified information becomes available,” the statement read.
The Service cautioned against drawing conclusions about the cause of the accident before the investigation was completed.
“Conclusions regarding the cause of the accident would be premature until the investigation is completed and its findings are duly considered,” the statement added.
The NAF said search, recovery and investigative efforts remained a priority, pledging to implement appropriate safety recommendations arising from the board’s findings.
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