The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of the 25 people who died when an NAF ATR-42 aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The aircraft, identified by its registration number NAF 931, was travelling from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos on a routine mission when it crashed on Monday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF confirmed that all 25 people on board died in the incident.

The aircraft had five crew members and 20 passengers.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the crash as a painful loss to the Nigerian Air Force and the country, while extending his condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims.

He also assured the bereaved families of the Service’s support.

According to the NAF, search-and-rescue operations were launched immediately after the crash in collaboration with relevant authorities.

“NAF 931 had 25 persons on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers,” the statement said.

“No survivors have been found.”

The deceased crew members were:

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

The passengers were:

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

The NAF said Aneke had ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

It urged members of the public to avoid speculation and the spread of unverified information as the investigation continues.

The Service also announced the opening of a condolence register at its headquarters in Abuja for government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.