By Abubakar Yunusa
Former Deputy Commandant of Nigeria Defence College, Major General Ede Gabriel Ode (retd), has condoled with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) over the tragic crash of an ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, which claimed the lives of 32 officers and personnel.
Gen Ode, in a condolence message made available to Peoples Daily on Tuesday, described the incident as a tragic loss to the nation, saying he received news of the crash with “deep shock and sadness.”
“As a retired General who served under the same flag, I understand the pain of losing comrades in active service.
“These were Nigerians who died in service to our fatherland, on routine duty from Benin to Lagos,” he said.
The aircraft, NGR 931, reportedly crashed on Monday while on routine duty from Benin to Lagos, with 25 passengers and seven crew members on board.
Ode expressed solidarity with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the entire NAF family, while commending the Air Chief’s leadership in the wake of the tragedy.
He also commiserated with President Bola Tinubu, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the people of Ondo State, particularly the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members who lost their lives.
The retired General also welcomed President Tinubu’s declaration of three days of national mourning and directive for a full investigation into the crash.
He said a thorough investigation was necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and help prevent a recurrence.
“I align with Mr President’s declaration of three-day national mourning and order for full investigation into the crash,” he said.
“We need to know what happened to prevent future occurrence,” Gen Ode added.
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen personnel and for strength and comfort for their families.
“May their sacrifice never be in vain.”
Major General Ode (retd) is currently the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) House of Representatives candidate for Oju/Obi Federal Constituency in the upcoming 2027 general election.
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