Air Force Committee Chairman Calls for Calm After Crash

Kabiru Alhassan, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Air Force, expressed his concern regarding the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Ondo State. The incident involved an aircraft reportedly carrying 32 passengers and crew.

Alhassan issued a message of solidarity on Tuesday, expressing sadness over the incident and urging Nigerians to remain calm as rescue operations continue. He emphasized the importance of avoiding the spread of unverified information while emergency responders and security agencies work to confirm the status of those on board.

The aircraft, tail number NGR 931, lost contact with air traffic controllers shortly after take-off from Benin City at approximately 9:13 am before crashing into a swamp in Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State. Alhassan commended the prompt response of the Nigerian Air Force and other personnel involved in the rescue efforts and expressed hope for the safe recovery of those on board.