Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 Crashes in Ondo State with 32 Aboard

A Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft carrying 32 people crashed near Igbokoda in Ondo State on Monday morning during a routine flight from Benin to Lagos. The aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, disappeared from radar around 9 a.m. local time and was subsequently located near a naval base in the Igbokoda area, a riverside community in Ilaje Local Government Area. According to Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, the aircraft had 25 passengers and 7 crew members on board. All attempts to make radio contact with the aircraft proved unsuccessful before the wreckage was discovered.

Witnesses reported hearing loud noises and observing part of the aircraft sinking in the water near the crash site. One witness told media that the plane cleared trees before impact, and searchers found body parts, clothing, and shoes. The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the aircraft was an ATR-42 twin-engine turboprop used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions as well as air maritime operations. As of initial reporting, no casualties were officially confirmed, though search and rescue operations were ongoing at the time.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa directed immediate mobilisation of state emergency and health agencies to support rescue efforts. The governor cordoned off the crash site and coordinated with the Nigerian Air Force, state emergency management, and security agencies. Aviation Minister Keyamo stated that while military aircraft fall outside the Ministry of Aviation's regulatory authority, he pledged full cooperation and assistance from his ministry to the search and rescue operations. Authorities urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information pending official updates.