Why we can’t investigate Ondo NAF crash – NSIB
by Adenle Ahmed Abiola · The Eagle OnlineThe Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) announced on Monday that it will not independently investigate the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, unless it receives a formal invitation from the military.
In a statement, the NSIB clarified that because the accident involved a military aircraft, it falls outside its independent statutory investigative mandate under the NSIB Establishment Act of 2022.
The Bureau added that its Flight Safety Laboratory could be deployed to assist with the recovery and analysis of flight data and cockpit voice recordings should the Nigerian Air Force formally request its assistance.
A statement signed by NSIB Director General / Chief Executive Officer, Captain Alex Badeh Jr, reads: “NSIB has received reports of an accident involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on 5 October 2026.
“The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred and that search and rescue operations have been activated and are ongoing, in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
“The Bureau extends its sincere condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and to the families and colleagues of all those on board. Our thoughts are with them and with the search and rescue teams working at the site.
“This occurrence involves a military aircraft. In line with the NSIB Establishment Act, 2022, and with established international practice, the investigation of military aviation accidents rests with the military authority.
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“The NSIB does not investigate military accidents unless formally invited to do so by that authority.
“Should the Nigerian Air Force so request, the Bureau stands ready to assist. That assistance can include the deployment of investigators and the use of the Bureau’s Flight Safety Laboratory for flight data and cockpit voice recovery and readout, as well as related technical support.
“The NSIB commends the swift activation of search and rescue operations and the efforts of first responders at Igbokoda. The public is urged to rely exclusively on official updates from the Nigerian Air Force on the rescue operation and on any investigation.”
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