Nigerian Air Force Plane Crash in Ondo State Claims 25 Lives

On October 5, 2026, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, Ondo State, resulting in the deaths of 25 individuals. The NAF stated that the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos.

However, a witness claimed the flight originated from Abuja and reported that the aircraft had mechanical issues. In response to the crash, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, announced the formation of a panel to investigate the incident.

Previous investigations into military aircraft crashes have not prevented further accidents, raising concerns about corruption and inadequate funding affecting the NAF's ability to maintain aircraft safety. Notable past incidents include the August 29, 2015 crash of a NAF Dornier 228 in Kaduna, which killed seven, and the February 21, 2021 crash of a NAF Beechcraft King Air B350i near Abuja, which also resulted in seven fatalities.