The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called for a thorough investigation into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft crash that claimed the lives of 25 people in Ondo State.
The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday, October 5, 2026, while travelling from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos.
The Nigerian Air Force subsequently confirmed that 25 people were on board, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers. It said there were no survivors.
The NAF described the flight as a “routine mission” and later released the names of those who died in the crash.
Reacting to the tragedy, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, called for a proper investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Abdullahi, in a statement shared on his X handle, questioned how civilians, including children, came to be aboard a military aircraft reportedly undertaking a routine mission.
According to him, the presence of civilians on the aircraft raises questions that authorities should address as part of the investigation into the crash.
The ADC spokesperson also called for greater scrutiny of the funding and maintenance of military aircraft, saying the incident should prompt authorities to examine whether funds allocated for the maintenance of military equipment are being properly released and utilised.
The party said it would not want to prejudice the ongoing investigation into the cause of the crash but maintained that the tragedy should provide an opportunity to examine broader concerns surrounding military aviation and defence spending.
The crash has sparked widespread concern, with President Bola Tinubu ordering an investigation into the incident and declaring three days of national mourning for the victims.
The exact cause of the crash has not yet been established, while investigations by relevant authorities are ongoing.
