By Attah Ede
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has commiserated with Nigeria government following the tragic crash of the Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft on October 5, 2026.
The military aircraft, (NAF 931) crashed into a swampy area near the naval base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The plane was on a routine mission traveling from Benin Airport in Edo State to Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos State before the incidence occurred.
The Board of Trustees and the National Leadership of PANDEF, on Thursday in a statement on behalf of the people of the South-South geopolitical zone, said it received with deep shock and pain the tragic news of the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft.
The statement which was personally signed by the National Chairman of PANDEF, Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali and made available to newsmen, called on all Nigerians at all levels to unite around government to instill peace and security across the federation during this period when the nation is confronted with diverse security threats and challenges to the wellbeing of ordinary citizens.
Dr. Boladei-Igali noted that the tragic occurrence also underscores the imperative need for the Federal Government to prioritize continuous investments in the combat readiness and equipment maintenance of the nation’s military personnel.
PANDEF further urged a thorough and full investigation to ascertain all available circumstances that might have contributed to the Igbokoda air crash and similar calamities.
Part of the statement read: “Even more shocking is the fact that, so far, none of the 27 crew members and passengers have been recovered alive, as the aircraft sank into the deep waters of that sandy terrain.
“Although we, as a people from the South-South are grievously affected, as several of our sons are among those listed as victims of this loss, we nonetheless convey our heartfelt condolences to all the families directly affected as well as to the Nigerian Air Force, the Federal Government and all the people of Nigeria.
“More painful is the fact that most of the deceased were young Nigerians who have now laid down their lives for the peace and security of our nation during the line of duty. There is no greater sacrifice than this, and Nigeria will always honour them individually and collectively.
“Even as the country continues to observe the national days of mourning, we call on all our citizens to offer special prayers for the affected families and for our brave men and women serving in various theatres and operational duties.”
