Nigerian Air Force looses Seven officers in a jet crash

By Maureen Ikpeama

 Nigerian Air Force on Sunday, lost seven officers  onboard a Beechcraft KingAir B350i aircraft when the jet crashed in Abuja.

The jet en route Minna in Niger State crashed close to the runway of the Abuja airport after reporting engine failure.

NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, In a statement, said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal I O Amao, has ordered an immediate probe of the accident.

Daramola said, “This is to confirm that a Nigerian Air Force Beechcraft KingAir B350i aircraft crashed while returning to the Abuja Airport after reporting engine failure enroute Minna. First responders are at the scene. Sadly, all seven personnel on board died in the crash.

“The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal IO Amao, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.

“While urging the general public to remain calm and await the outcome of investigation, the CAS, on behalf of all NAF personnel, commiserates with the families of the deceased.”

The Accident Investigation Bureau said that it does not investigate military incidents or accidents except when invited.

General Manager, Public Affairs, AIB, Tunji Oketunbi, in a message, said, “There was an accident involving a military aircraft. By the power established AIB-N, we do not investigate military incidents or accident except where invited.”

 President Bihari, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and some other Nigerians have  condoled  the affected families and the Nigerian military.