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Nigerian Air Force Plane Crash in Ondo: 32 Killed as Tinubu Declares National Mourning

Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the tragic crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Ondo State, which claimed the lives of all 32 people on board.

The military aircraft crashed on Monday, October 5, 2026, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while travelling from Benin City to Lagos on a routine mission. The aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members when it went down near a naval base.

The incident has sparked grief across the country, particularly among members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the families of those who lost their lives.

What Happened?

According to information released by aviation authorities, air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:13 a.m. on Monday.

The aircraft, identified as an ATR-42, was subsequently located after it crashed close to the Naval Base in Igbokoda. Search-and-rescue teams were activated following the incident.

Initial reports indicated that 32 people were on board, consisting of 25 passengers and seven crew members. Later reports confirmed that there were no survivors.

The exact cause of the crash has not yet been established.

Tinubu Orders Investigation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed deep sadness over the tragedy and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately begin a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The President said the investigation should help establish what caused the accident and prevent similar tragedies in the future. He also commended first responders, the Nigerian Air Force and the Ondo State Government for their response at the crash site.

The names of the deceased Air Force personnel are expected to be released after their families have been contacted.

Three Days of National Mourning

In honour of the victims, President Tinubu declared three days of national mourning across Nigeria.

He also directed that the national flag be flown at half-mast throughout the country as a mark of respect for the deceased personnel.

The President described the incident as a painful moment for Nigeria's Armed Forces, noting that military personnel continue to risk their lives in the service of the country.

A Nation in Grief

The crash has once again drawn attention to the risks faced by military personnel who travel regularly as part of their duties.

While investigations are expected to provide answers about the cause of the accident, families and colleagues of the victims are now left to deal with the devastating loss.

For many Nigerians, the tragedy is not simply an aviation accident. It represents the loss of 32 lives and another painful moment for families who expected their loved ones to return home.

As investigations continue, Nigerians will be watching closely for further information about what happened to the aircraft and whether any safety issues contributed to the crash.

May the souls of all those who lost their lives rest in peace.