ACF mourns 25 dead in Ondo plane crash, calls for investigation

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of 25 people, including military personnel and crew members, in a plane crash at Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The crash, which occurred on Monday, 5 October 2026, has prompted the ACF to call for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and measures to prevent a recurrence.

In a statement issued on Monday by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the Forum described the incident as a “tragic loss” and said it was mourning the victims.

“The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) is pained at and mourns the tragic loss of 25 lives, comprising military personnel and crew, sequel to a plane crash at Igbokoda, Ondo State,” Muhammad-Baba said.

The Forum said the tragedy was particularly painful because it occurred “at a very critical and challenging” period for the country.

According to the ACF, the death of military personnel was especially concerning given their role in combating insecurity, insurgency and terrorism across the country.

“Particularly unfortunate is the loss of military officers given the role that is expected of such personnel in the fight against insecurity, insurgency and terrorism,” the Forum said.

It added that the combined effect of insecurity, insurgency and terrorism was “threatening anarchy and striking at the heart of the nation’s quest for sustained development.”

Beyond the institutional loss, the ACF acknowledged the personal grief suffered by the victims’ families, friends and loved ones.

“This is not to forget the painful impact on families, friends and loved ones of the dead,” the statement said.

The Forum also welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to investigate the crash, stressing that lessons from the incident should be used to strengthen aviation safety and prevent similar tragedies.

“The Forum welcomes the resolve of the Government to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the tragedy for necessary measures to avert such incidents through lessons to be learned,” it said.

The ACF extended its condolences to the Federal Government and people of Nigeria, the Nigerian Air Force and the wider military establishment, as well as the families, friends and other loved ones of the deceased.

The Forum prayed for strength and comfort for those affected by the tragedy, asking God to grant them “the necessary faith and stoicism” to bear the loss and return to normality.

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