NAF Releases Names of 25 Personnel Killed in Ondo Military Plane Crash
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the identities of 25 personnel who died in the military aircraft crash at Igbokoda, Ondo State, on Monday, October 5, 2026.
The disclosure is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who confirmed that no survivor had been found following the crash.
The deceased comprise five crew members and 20 passengers.
The crew members were Squadron Leader MI Aburime, Flight Captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, Co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, Co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, Aircraft Technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, Aircraft Technician.
The passengers were Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus; Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye; Flying Officer IM Adeshina; Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F; Master Warrant Officer Matini BA; Warrant Officer Nuhu FS; Flight Sergeant James RB; Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI; Sergeant Ani AE; Sergeant Izibenikien SI; Sergeant Alafuka C; Sergeant Mbadugha AN; Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC; Lance Corporal Eledan GE; Mrs Ezeh Nneka; Godstmine Tarabina; Joy Micheal; Sunday Micheal; Ukeme David; and Gideon Omotola.
Ejodame said the Chief of Air Staff had ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
According to him, the Chief of Air Staff described the incident as “a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation,” while extending condolences to the families, loved ones and colleagues of the victims.
The NAF assured the bereaved families of its full support, adding that updates on the investigation would be provided as verified information becomes available.
“The Nigerian Air Force will continue to provide timely and verified updates as the investigation progresses and urges the public to refrain from speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families,” the statement said.
The Service also announced the opening of a condolence register at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja for senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, heads of security agencies and other well-wishers wishing to pay their respects.
The crash has plunged the Nigerian military community and the families of the victims into mourning as authorities continue efforts to establish the cause of the tragedy.
