ATR-42 crashed at Ondo on routine Benin-Lagos mission as search and rescue operation continues
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft belonging to the force crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday, October 5, 2026.
The aircraft was reportedly carrying out a routine mission from Benin in Edo State to Lagos when the incident occurred. Following the crash, the NAF activated search and rescue operations in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
The development came after contact with the aircraft was reportedly lost during the flight. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo later disclosed that the wreckage was located near the Naval Base in Igbokoda.
Preliminary information indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board, bringing the total number of people aboard to 32. However, authorities had not officially confirmed the casualty figure at the time of reporting.
The NAF, through its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said rescue efforts were ongoing and that further details would be released as more information becomes available.
The cause of the crash has not yet been established, as authorities continue with rescue efforts and investigations into the incident.
