ACF mourns victims killed in military plane crash, seeks thorough probe

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has condoled with the Federal Government, Nigerian Air Force and families of victims of the military plane crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, which reportedly claimed 25 lives.

The forum described the loss of military personnel and crew as tragic, particularly at a time the country is battling insecurity, insurgency and terrorism.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tukur  Muhammad-Baba, the ACF said the loss of military officers was particularly painful given their role in the fight against insecurity and terrorism.

The forum said the death of the personnel would also have a painful impact on their families, friends and other loved ones.

“The loss of lives is tragic in all its ramifications, coming as it did at a very critical and challenging time in the nation,” the statement said.

The ACF welcomed the Federal Government’s decision to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, saying lessons from the probe should be used to prevent a recurrence.

It urged that the investigation should help identify the circumstances that led to the tragedy and guide measures to avert similar incidents in the future.

The forum extended its condolences to the government and people of Nigeria, the Nigerian Air Force, the wider military establishment and families of the deceased.

It also prayed for strength and fortitude for those affected by the tragedy to bear the loss and cope with its aftermath.