Most Distinguished Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole mni, CON, joined his colleagues in the Nigerian Senate to demand an urgent and comprehensive probe into budgetary allocations for the maintenance of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft, following the tragic crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The resolution was reached at the resumption of plenary following a motion sponsored by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Air Force, Sen. Osita Ngwu, highlighting grave concerns over recurring military aviation disasters.
Taking a prominent stand during deliberations, Senator Oshiomhole emphasized the necessity of uncovering exact budgetary provisions for aircraft up-keep to establish whether funding is sufficient or being mismanaged.
The tragedy involved a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft (tail number NGR 931) that crashed near the Naval Base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, on October 5, 2026, while en route from Benin City to Lagos.
Underscoring that operational readiness and airworthiness are non-negotiable for national security and defense, lawmakers warned that failing to execute a transparent investigation would severely jeopardize future aviation safety.
The Senate resolved to urge the Federal Government to prioritize funding for routine maintenance and the replacement of aging military fleets to safeguard personnel.
Additionally, the Upper Chamber mandated its Committees on Air Force and Aviation to inspect the crash site, engage NAF leadership, and conduct a full technical audit of both presidential and military fleets.
Lawmakers further called on the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to fast-track an independent probe into the immediate and root causes of the crash and make their findings public.
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