Ondo Plane Crash: Nigerian Air Force Releases Names of 25 Victims, Begins Investigation
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially released the names of the 25 personnel and passengers who tragically lost their lives in the crash of an ATR 42 aircraft, registered as NAF 931, in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed profound condolences to the families, loved ones, and colleagues of the victims, describing the accident as a “deeply painful moment” for both the NAF and the entire nation.
Details of the Incident
The routine flight was transiting from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred on Tuesday, 6 October 2026.
The NAF confirmed that 25 individuals were on board—comprising five crew members and 20 passengers.
Search-and-rescue teams were immediately deployed to the site in coordination with relevant local authorities. Tragically, first responders confirmed that no survivors were found at the crash scene.
Full List of the Deceased Personnel and Passengers:
The NAF director of public relations and information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, published the full manifest of those on board:
Flight Crew
- Squadron Leader MI Aburime (Flight Captain)
- Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje (Co-pilot)
- Flight Lieutenant IS Bako (Co-pilot)
- Warrant Officer Abubakar A (Aircraft Technician)
- Corporal Uguru HC (Aircraft Technician)
Passengers - Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus
- Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye
- Flying Officer IM Adeshina
- Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F
- Master Warrant Officer Matini BA
- Warrant Officer Nuhu FS
- Flight Sergeant James RB
- Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI
- Sergeant Ani AE
- Sergeant Izibenikien SI
- Sergeant Alafuka C
- Sergeant Mbadugha AN
- Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC
- Lance Corporal Eledan GE
- Mrs Ezeh Nneka
- Godstmine Tarabina
- Joy Micheal
- Sunday Micheal
- Ukeme David
- Gideon Omotola
Next Steps and Investigation
Air Marshal Aneke has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the technical and environmental factors surrounding the crash to determine its exact cause.
The military high command has urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or speculating on social media out of respect for the dignity and privacy of the grieving families.
A formal condolence register has been opened at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja for government officials, diplomats, security chiefs, and citizens wishing to pay their final respects.
