NDC presidential candidate signs condolence register in Abuja, paying tribute to fallen military personnel and commiserating with bereaved families following the fatal Igbokoda air disaster.
ABUJA, Nigeria — The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), His Excellency Peter Obi, paid a solemn condolence visit to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) facility in Abuja on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, following the tragic crash of an NAF military aircraft in Ondo State. During the visit, Obi met with Air Force leadership, signed the official condolence register, and extended his sympathies to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the officers and personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The ill-fated military aircraft, an ATR 42 carrying 32 personnel from Benin in Edo State toward Lagos, crashed near Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State on Monday, October 5, after disappearing from radar screens.
Speaking during the visit and in an official statement, Obi described the loss of the service members as a profound tragedy for the nation, emphasizing that the immense sacrifice of military personnel in safeguarding the country must never be taken for granted. “These courageous men and women devote their lives to defending our nation and safeguarding our people, and their service and sacrifice must never be overlooked,” Obi stated. He added that his thoughts and prayers remain with the Nigerian Air Force leadership, the bereaved families, and the colleagues of the fallen officers during this deeply painful period.
The NDC flagbearer offered prayers for the eternal repose of the deceased personnel and asked for divine strength and consolation for their families, while also praying for the continued protection of all members of the Armed Forces serving across various operational theaters nationwide.
The condolence visit comes as military authorities and the Ministry of Aviation launch an investigation into the cause of the fatal crash.
