Minister Festus Keyamo confirms a military plane crash in Ondo State after disappearing from radar.
A military aircraft carrying 32 people has crashed near a naval base in Ondo State, according to Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo. The tragic incident occurred on Monday after the flight vanished from radar screens during a routine journey.
The aircraft, bearing tail number NGR 931, was traveling from Benin to Lagos when air traffic controllers lost all contact. Emergency responders quickly mobilized to the site, according to information published by punchng.
Preliminary reports indicate that the ill-fated flight carried 25 passengers and seven crew members. Search and rescue operations are currently underway at the crash site near the coastal community.
Timeline of the Ondo military aircraft disappearance
The flight took off from Benin en route to Lagos earlier in the day before trouble struck. Air traffic controllers officially lost contact with the military aircraft at approximately 9:13 am, according to official statements.
Radio contact attempts failed completely before air traffic controllers informed the aviation ministry. Minister Festus Keyamo stated that all efforts to raise the missing aircraft on radio proved abortive during the initial hours.
Location of the crash near Igbokoda naval base
Search teams successfully located the wreckage of the military aircraft close to the strategic Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State. Ground teams and security forces immediately deployed to the location to coordinate rescue efforts.
Local authorities and military personnel are working closely together at the scene. The ministry confirmed that the wreckage was spotted near the water-bound military installation in the southern region of the state.
Jurisdiction over military aircraft operations
Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo clarified that the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development holds no regulatory authority over military flights. The management of defense aviation assets falls completely outside civilian aviation oversight.
Despite this administrative separation, Keyamo spoke directly with Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Aneke to offer full governmental cooperation. The civilian aviation sector pledged total assistance for the ongoing military search and rescue operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the military aircraft in Ondo State?
A military aircraft with tail number NGR 931 crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ondo State, after disappearing from radar while en route from Benin to Lagos.
How many people were on board the crashed military plane?
Preliminary information provided by Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo indicates that there were 32 people on board, consisting of 25 passengers and seven crew members.
Who confirmed the military aircraft crash?
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, officially confirmed the crash after speaking with Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Aneke.
Are rescue operations ongoing for the Ondo plane crash?
Yes, search and rescue operations are currently underway after the wreckage of the aircraft was located close to the naval base in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
