Senate Demands Audit of NAF Aircraft After Fatal Crash

Following a tragic crash involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on October 5, 2026, which resulted in the deaths of 32 individuals, the Nigerian Senate has initiated a call for a comprehensive audit of the serviceability and airworthiness of NAF aircraft. The motion was sponsored by Senator Osita Ngwu, representing Enugu West, and highlighted that the aircraft, tail number NGR 931, was on a routine flight from Benin City to Lagos with 25 passengers and seven crew members when it lost contact with air traffic controllers at approximately 9:13 a.m. local time.

The Senate expressed concerns over recurring military aviation accidents and the need for transparent investigations to prevent future incidents. They urged the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau to conduct thorough investigations and mandated Senate committees to assess the aircraft fleet's readiness.

The Senate also called for prioritization of funding for aircraft maintenance and the replacement of aging military aircraft.