?President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 jet near a naval base in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday morning. The aircraft was on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred.

Extending his condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members on board, as well as to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the entire Air Force community, the President described the incident as a painful moment for the Armed Forces and the nation.

?In response to the tragedy, President Tinubu directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately initiate a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

He commended the Air Force for its prompt activation of Search and Rescue operations, while also acknowledging the swift intervention of first responders and the Ondo State Government at the site.

Reaffirming his administration's support for the military, the President prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased personnel and for strength for their families and the Nigerian Air Force during this difficult time.