CAN demands transparent probe into Ondo Air Force crash

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for a thorough, professional and transparent investigation into the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash near Igbokoda, Ondo state.

CAN also urged authorities to ensure that the findings of the investigation and any safety recommendations arising from it receive the necessary attention.

The President of CAN, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, made the call while expressing the association’s condolences to the families of the deceased personnel, the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the people and government of Ondo State.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Okoh said CAN welcomed the decision to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, stressing the need for the process to be conducted transparently.

“CAN welcomes the decision to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. We urge that the investigation be thorough, professional and transparent, and that its findings and safety recommendations receive the necessary attention,” he said.

The CAN president also called for renewed efforts to strengthen aviation safety, aircraft maintenance, operational procedures and emergency response systems.

According to him, such measures are particularly important for personnel of the Armed Forces who undertake difficult assignments in the service of the nation.

“Every life lost is precious,” Okoh said, urging continued efforts to improve safety measures and protect military personnel involved in national assignments.

He commiserated with the families of the deceased personnel and their colleagues in the Nigerian Air Force, noting that members of the Armed Forces make enormous sacrifices in the service of the country, while their families also bear the burden of those sacrifices.

Okoh urged Nigerians to remember the affected families and the Nigerian Air Force in their prayers.

He prayed that God would grant eternal rest to the departed, comfort to the bereaved and wisdom to those entrusted with the responsibility of protecting lives.