Military Aircraft Carrying 32 People Crashes in Ondo, Search-and-Rescue Operation Underway
By Naijagossiper Official ยท
A Nigerian military aircraft carrying 32 people has crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with search-and-rescue operations launched at the scene.
The aircraft, identified by the Nigerian Air Force as an ATR-42 with registration number NGR 931, was travelling from Benin to Lagos on what authorities described as a routine mission.
According to Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo, air traffic controllers lost contact with the aircraft at about 9:13 a.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026. Attempts to re-establish communication with the aircraft were unsuccessful before authorities received confirmation that it had crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda.
Preliminary information indicates that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board, bringing the total number of people aboard to 32. The wreckage has been located, while rescue teams continue efforts at the crash site.
The exact cause of the crash has not yet been established. Authorities have urged the public to rely on verified information as investigations and rescue operations continue.
As of the latest official reports, no confirmed casualty figure had been released, and officials said further information would be provided as it becomes available.
The incident has drawn attention across Ondo State, particularly in Igbokoda and surrounding riverine communities, where emergency responders and local residents have been involved in the response.