Why we can’t probe Ondo NAF aircraft crash – NSIB

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has said it will not investigate the crash involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo state, unless it is formally invited by the military authority.

The bureau disclosed this in a statement on Monday, explaining that the incident involved a military aircraft and therefore fell outside its statutory mandate.

NSIB explains position

The NSIB said its position was based on the provisions of the NSIB Establishment Act, 2022, as well as established international practice, which places the investigation of military aviation accidents under the relevant military authority.

“This occurrence involves a military aircraft,” the bureau said.

The NSIB stressed that its decision was not a refusal to assist with the investigation but a recognition of the legal responsibility assigned to the military.

“The NSIB does not investigate military accidents unless formally invited to do so by that authority,” it said.

The aircraft was involved in an accident on Monday while reportedly on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed the incident and activated search and rescue operations in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.

NSIB offers technical assistance

Despite declining to directly investigate the crash, the NSIB said it was prepared to provide technical assistance if requested by the Nigerian Air Force.

The bureau said such assistance could include deploying investigators and making its Flight Safety Laboratory available to recover and analyse flight data and cockpit voice recordings.

It added that other forms of technical support could also be provided to assist the military authority with the investigation.

The NSIB expressed sympathy to those affected by the crash, extending its condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the families and colleagues of those on board the aircraft.

“Our thoughts are with them and with the search and rescue teams working at the site,” the bureau said.

The bureau also commended first responders and other agencies involved in the rescue operation at Igbokoda.

It urged members of the public to rely only on official information from the Nigerian Air Force regarding the search and rescue operation and any subsequent investigation.

The NSIB said any further information from the bureau would be released when appropriate and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.