The Orashi National Congress, ONC, has expressed deep shock and sadness over the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Ondo State.
The aircraft, marked NGR 931, crashed in the morning of Sunday, October 5, 2026, near Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state while on a routine flight from Benin to Lagos.
In a condolence message signed by its President General, Amb. Comrade Emeni Ibe, the ONC said it was deeply saddened that 25 passengers and 7 crew members, 32 souls in total, were on board the ill-fated aircraft.
“On behalf of the Orashi people, the ONC extends heartfelt condolences to the Chief of Air Staff, the entire Nigerian Air Force family, the Government and people of Ondo State, and the bereaved families,” the statement said.
The apex socio-cultural organisation of Orashi people said it stands in solidarity with the Nigerian Air Force and the affected families at this difficult time, praying for the repose of the souls of the departed and for fortitude for their families to bear the loss.
The Congress also commended the Ondo State Government and the Nigerian Air Force for the ongoing search and rescue operations at the crash site.
“May their souls rest in perfect peace,” Amb. Ibe added.