Nigerian Air Force confirms ownership of cr@shed military plane
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that the aircraft involved in a crash in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday, October 5, 2026, belongs to the force.
The confirmation was made by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who said the aircraft was carrying out a routine mission when the accident occurred.
According to the Air Force, the aircraft, identified as an ATR-42, was travelling from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos when it crashed in the Igbokoda area.
The NAF said it immediately activated a Search and Rescue operation following the incident and is working with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies to locate and assist those involved.
In a statement, Ejodame said the ongoing operation was being given priority, while assuring that additional information would be released as developments emerge.
The statement said:
“The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has activated an immediate Search and Rescue operation following an ATR-42 aircraft accident in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on 5 October 2026.
“The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. Search and Rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing.
“The NAF is committed to ensuring the success of the ongoing Search and Rescue efforts. Further details will be communicated in due course.”
The Air Force did not immediately disclose the number of people who were on board the aircraft or whether there were casualties following the crash.
The incident has prompted a coordinated emergency response in the area as search and rescue personnel continue efforts at the crash location.
Further details concerning the circumstances surrounding the accident, the condition of those on board and the outcome of the rescue operation are expected from the Nigerian Air Force and other relevant authorities.