The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Air Force, Kabiru Alhassan, has appealed for calm following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Ondo State.
Alhassan, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said he was deeply concerned about the incident involving an ATR-42 military aircraft reportedly carrying 32 passengers and crew members.
He said the fate of those on board remained unconfirmed as rescue teams and security agencies continued efforts to locate and account for everyone involved.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the passengers, crew members, their families and loved ones at this difficult moment,” Alhassan said.
The lawmaker commended personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, security agencies, emergency responders and other teams involved in the rescue operation for their prompt intervention.
He expressed hope that those aboard the aircraft would be found alive, urging Nigerians to remain calm and prayerful as the operation continued.
“I earnestly pray and remain hopeful that those on board will be found safe,” he said.
Alhassan also cautioned members of the public against circulating unverified reports, noting that authorities were still working to determine what happened and establish the status of everyone on board.
The aircraft, with registration number NGR 931, was reportedly travelling from Benin City, Edo State, to Lagos when air traffic controllers lost contact with it at about 9:13 am on Monday.
The aircraft subsequently crashed into a swamp in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The committee chairman reiterated his support for the families of the passengers and crew while urging rescue personnel to sustain efforts at the crash site.
