NAF ATR-42 Aircraft Crashes in Ondo Swamp, 25 Dead

On October 5, 2026, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 transport aircraft with tail number NGR 931 crashed into a swampy creek in Igbokoda, Ondo State, shortly after departing from Benin City. The aircraft was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members when it disappeared from radar at approximately 9:13 am.

A senior Air Traffic Controller expressed concerns about the sudden loss of communication, describing it as suspicious. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud bang believed to be the crash sound.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Keyamo, confirmed that the wreckage was located near the Naval Base in Igbokoda and that search and rescue operations were underway. The Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, stated that the service was committed to the success of the ongoing operations.

Efforts to recover the aircraft's black box were also initiated.