Air Force Crash : PANDEF Calls For Prayers, Full Investigation and Stronger Security Measures

 

















By Blessing Vwerhoko

Yenagoa




The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called for national unity and renewed commitment to peace and security as Nigerians mourn the victims of the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash near Igbokoda in Ondo State.


PANDEF said the South-South geopolitical zone was particularly devastated by the tragedy because several of its sons were reportedly among those listed as victims.
The forum's Board of Trustees and national leadership, in a statement signed by its National Chairman, Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, expressed deep sorrow over the incident which occurred on Monday, October 5, 2026.
The aircraft, according to the statement, sank into the deep waters around the sandy terrain, with 27 crew members and passengers reportedly lost in the tragedy.
PANDEF extended its condolences to the families of the victims, the Nigerian Air Force, the Federal Government and Nigerians across the country.
The forum said the tragedy was particularly painful because most of those who died were young Nigerians serving the country during operational duties.


It described their deaths as a supreme sacrifice made in the service of Nigeria's peace and security.
PANDEF called on Nigerians to observe the period of mourning with prayers for the affected families and the safety of military personnel serving in different theatres across the country.


The forum also urged the Federal Government to strengthen its commitment to the welfare, operational readiness and equipment maintenance of the nation's armed forces.
It stressed that continuous investment in military equipment was necessary to ensure that personnel undertaking dangerous national assignments were adequately supported.


PANDEF further called for a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the crash.
It said the investigation should establish all circumstances that might have contributed to the incident and help the government prevent similar calamities.
The forum also used the occasion to appeal for national solidarity, urging Nigerians at all levels to unite around efforts to strengthen peace and security.


PANDEF noted that Nigeria was currently facing diverse security threats and challenges capable of undermining the wellbeing of ordinary citizens.
It therefore urged citizens to put aside divisions and support measures aimed at securing the country.

The forum said the fallen personnel deserved to be remembered as patriots who gave their lives in the service of the nation.





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