Senate Demands Audit of Nigerian Air Force After Crash

On October 5, a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, tail number NGR 931, crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, resulting in the deaths of 25 passengers and crew members. In response, the Senate, led by Senator Osita Ngwu representing Enugu West, called for a comprehensive audit of the Nigerian Air Force's aircraft and maintenance funding.

The Senate directed its relevant committees to investigate budgetary provisions for aircraft maintenance to assess whether inadequate funding contributed to the crash. Lawmakers expressed concerns over recurring military aviation accidents and emphasized the need for a transparent investigation into the crash's causes.

They observed a minute's silence for the victims and extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of the Air Staff, and the families affected. The Senate urged the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau to conduct a thorough investigation and mandated committees to visit the crash site and audit the serviceability of military aircraft.