32 People Killed in Nigerian Air Force Aircraft Crash in Ondo State

By Vision6000 | 5 October 2026

Thirty-two people have died after a Nigerian Air Force aircraft crashed near Igbokoda in Ondo State, Nigeria, on Monday.

The aircraft, identified as an ATR-42, was carrying 25 passengers and seven crew members when it crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, in the Ilaje Local Government Area.

The aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, was reportedly travelling on a routine mission between Benin and Lagos when air traffic controllers lost contact with it at about 9:13 a.m. local time.

Attempts to re-establish radio contact with the aircraft were unsuccessful before authorities confirmed that it had crashed in the Igbokoda area. The wreckage was subsequently located near the naval base. 

All 32 occupants believed dead

Initial reports said search-and-rescue operations were underway and that authorities had not immediately confirmed casualties.

However, later reports indicated that all 32 people aboard the aircraft were believed to have died. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the crash and ordered an investigation into the incident. 

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa also expressed his condolences and directed emergency agencies to support the response operation. Authorities said no survivor had been found at the crash site. 

Investigation underway

The cause of the crash has not yet been established.

The Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation, while authorities continue efforts to recover victims and secure the crash site.

The incident is among the latest fatal military aviation accidents to raise concerns about aircraft safety and operational readiness in Nigeria.

Further details, including the identities of those who died and the circumstances leading to the crash, are expected as the investigation progresses.