NAF Warns Against Premature Conclusions on Ondo Air Crash
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has constituted a 12-member Aircraft Accident Investigation Board to determine the circumstances and causes of the crash involving its ATR 42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on October 5, 2026. The accident killed all those on board. In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Service said the board would examine the operational, technical, environmental, human and organisational factors surrounding the crash. Air Vice Marshal FO Ankeli will serve as president of the board, while Air Vice Marshal EOE Ebiowe, head of the Investigation and Recovery Team, will coordinate the wider response. The board comprises specialists in aviation operations, flight safety, piloting, air traffic control, aircraft engineering, maintenance and medical services, alongside representatives of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau. Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has directed sustained search and recovery operations alongside a comprehensive investigation.
According to the NAF, investigators will systematically examine and preserve relevant evidence, assess emergency response and recovery operations, and establish the immediate and underlying causes of the accident. The board is expected to make evidence-based recommendations to address any identified deficiencies, strengthen aviation safety and reduce the risk of similar incidents. The Service also announced that a direct helpline had been established at its headquarters, within the Office of the Directorate of Veterans Affairs, to provide recorded next of kin with information and clarification. Administrative arrangements, including meetings with affected families and other support measures, have also been activated. The NAF said it would provide updates as verified information becomes available, while cautioning against drawing conclusions about the cause of the crash before the investigation is completed and its findings considered. It reaffirmed that search, recovery and investigative efforts remain priorities and pledged to implement appropriate safety recommendations arising from the board’s findings.
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