The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed ownership of the aircraft which crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo state.
Ehimen Ejodame, NAF director of public relations and information, said the aircraft was on a “routine mission” when it crashed in the early hours of Monday.
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In a statement made available to TheCable, the air force spokesperson said a rescue operation is underway.
“The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has activated an immediate Search and Rescue operation following an ATR-42 aircraft accident in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on 5 October 2026,” the statement reads.
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“The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred. Search and Rescue operations, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies, are currently ongoing.
“The NAF is committed to ensuring the success of the ongoing Search and Rescue efforts. Further details will be communicated in due course.”
The Ondo state police command had earlier confirmed the incident, but said details surrounding the crash were still emerging.
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Residents had, however, informed TheCable that the crash occurred in a swampy terrain opposite a naval base.
The Cable