From Tongnaan Dada Bawa, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has expressed grief over the tragic crash involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, in a swampy area near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The crash, which claimed the lives of military personnel and other victims, has been described by Governor Mutfwang as a painful tragedy and a monumental loss to the nation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, PhD, the Governor said the incident occurred at a time when personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces continue to make significant sacrifices in the service of the nation and the defence of its peace, unity and territorial integrity.
Mutfwang commended the fallen personnel for their courage, patriotism and selfless commitment to duty, noting that their sacrifices exemplified the highest ideals of service to the country and humanity.
He extended his condolences to the bereaved families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims, as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the entire Nigerian people.
The Governor, on behalf of the Government and people of Plateau State, prayed that Almighty God would grant the departed eternal rest and provide comfort and strength to their families and colleagues to bear the tragic and irreparable loss.