Legislature
Senate Raises Alarm Over Military Aviation Safety After Reported Air Crash
The Senate has expressed grief over the reported crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with 32 persons feared dead.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday, October 5, 2026, involving an ATR 42 aircraft with tail number NGR0931, which was said to have been on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos.
The matter was brought before the Senate by Senator Osita Ngwu, representing Enugu West Senatorial District, under Orders 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Rules.
The aircraft was reportedly carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members when it crashed near Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area.
The lawmaker described the incident as a national tragedy, highlighting the loss of military personnel dedicated to protecting the country.
Subsequently, the Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, sought the chamber’s approval to consider the matter as one of urgent national importance. The move received the support of the lawmakers.
The incident has renewed concerns about military aviation safety, aircraft maintenance and operational procedures within the Nigerian Air Force.
The Senate is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the reported crash and consider measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
