President Tinubu has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the cause of the crash and directed the Nigerian Air Force to commence investigation to prevent future occurrences.

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Nigeria Mourns As Military Plane Crashes Into Swamp In Ondo, 32 Killed

By Akmnews Reporter | October 6, 2026

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

The aircraft, an ATR-42 twin-engine turboprop, was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when it went down near Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, shortly after 9:00am on Monday, October 5th.

According to official statements, the aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members. All lost their lives in the crash.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a statement released by the Presidency, confirmed the incident and expressed profound sadness over the tragedy, describing it as "a painful moment for our Armed Forces and for the entire nation". 

President Tinubu has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the cause of the crash and directed the Nigerian Air Force to commence investigation to prevent future occurrences. 

He has also declared a three-day national mourning in honour of the deceased personnel and directed that all flags be flown at half-mast nationwide as a mark of respect.

Residents of the swampy riverine community near the Naval Base in Igbokoda said rescue efforts were hampered by the difficult terrain, as the wreckage sank deep into thick mud and water within minutes.

A resident, Bamidele Aiyeniberu, told reporters: "We have tried our best to rescue them... We tried our best, but unfortunately we cannot locate them" due to the swamp that swallowed the aircraft.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo disclosed that air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:13am local time before wreckage was later found near the coastal town.

Emergency and search and rescue teams were immediately deployed to the site, but authorities confirmed there were no survivors.

The Nigerian Air Force is expected to release the identities of the victims after their families have been formally notified.

This remains one of the deadliest military aviation disasters in Nigeria in recent years.

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