All 32 people aboard a Nigerian Air Force aircraft died after the plane crashed in Ondo State in southwestern Nigeria. The victims included 25 passengers and seven crew members. President Bola Tinubu confirmed the deaths on Monday. “The president extends his deepest condolences to the families of the 25 passengers and seven crew members involved,” his office said in a statement. Authorities launched search and rescue operations soon after the crash. Emergency teams and other agencies joined the operation.

Aircraft Crashed During Routine Mission

The aircraft was flying to Lagos when it crashed in Igbokoda, a riverside town in Ondo State. Lagos serves as Nigeria's economic hub. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo said the aircraft was carrying out a routine mission. The Nigerian Air Force identified the aircraft as an ATR-42. Officials did not immediately provide details about the extent of the damage. “Search and rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing,” air force spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame said.

Plane Crashed Near River

Local residents said the aircraft came down near a river. They also reported that part of the aircraft went into the water after the crash. Witness Akinbulejo Pius described the sound of the impact. “We heard something like a thunder strike,” he said. “The plane cleared some trees. We found some body parts, some clothes and shoes.” The crash site was later located near a naval base. Keyamo said the aircraft disappeared from radar at around 9 a.m. local time. Authorities later found the aircraft in the area.

ATR-42 Used for Military Operations

The Nigerian military has used ATR-42 aircraft for several purposes. The aircraft have supported intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The military has also used them to transport personnel and supplies. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the crash and examine the circumstances surrounding the aircraft's final flight.