NAF ATR-42 Aircraft Crash Details Emerge After Engine Fault

The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, crashed in the Obe-Rebby swamp in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State on October 6, 2026. Prior to the crash, the aircraft traveled from Abuja to Benin City on October 5, 2026, where it developed an engine fault and remained grounded overnight for repairs.

Technicians worked on the aircraft throughout the night, and it was cleared for takeoff on the morning of October 6. Sources indicated that the flight was initially intended to continue to Lagos after dropping off passengers in Benin.

However, there were claims that the Nigerian Air Force mischaracterized the flight as a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. A relative of one of the victims expressed confusion over the flight's designation, noting that the passenger had no business in Benin and was only traveling from Abuja to Lagos.

The aircraft was reportedly used frequently for VIP transportation rather than solely for surveillance operations.