Ondo Air Force Crash: NAF Recovers More Aircraft Components as Search Continues

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recovered additional components from its ATR 42-500 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as multi-agency teams continue search and recovery operations at the accident site. The latest recovery is expected to support the ongoing investigation into the crash.

In a statement published on its official X account on Wednesday, the Air Force said specialist divers from the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau were continuing underwater search operations alongside its recovery team. The teams are working to locate and retrieve relevant materials for documentation and preservation.

The recovery exercise involves several technical methods, including hydrographic surveys, satellite-based search-and-rescue imagery, mud excavation and the pumping out of excess water. These operations are intended to help investigators access areas of interest and recover additional evidence from the crash site.

The NAF said personnel were working both day and night to support the operation. It added that more aircraft components had been recovered as efforts continued to locate materials that could assist investigators in determining the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The crash occurred on October 5, 2026, in Igbokoda, Ondo State, involving Nigerian Air Force aircraft NAF 931. According to the supplied report, all those on board died in the incident. Recovery teams have continued working at the site as investigators seek relevant evidence.

Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has mourned Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime, the pilot of the aircraft, describing his death as a painful loss to his family, Edo State and Nigeria. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the governor extended his condolences to Aburime’s wife, daughter, parents, colleagues and other people affected by the tragedy.

Okpebholo said Aburime hailed from Uwessan in Esan Central Local Government Area, which the governor also identifies as his home community. He recalled that the officer studied Mass Communication at the University of Benin and was remembered by classmates as a quiet and humble person who did not flaunt his military rank. The governor also noted that Aburime continued his education despite his demanding military duties and sat a make-up examination just days before the crash.

The governor described the late officer’s commitment to service, education, discipline and humility as qualities young people could learn from. He also extended his condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force, Aburime’s colleagues and coursemates, and the families of everyone who died in the crash. Meanwhile, the multi-agency recovery operation continues as investigators work to gather and preserve evidence from the accident site.