The [Nigerian Air Force](https://www.nigerianairforce.mil.ng) confirmed on Saturday that its ATR 42 aircraft, registration NAF 931, crashed on Monday in the town of [Igbokoda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igbokoda), Ondo State, carrying a total of 25 occupants – 20 passengers and five active crew members, with two additional non‑active crew counted among the passengers.
**How many people were on board?**
Official records show the aircraft had 25 souls on board, which includes seven crew members. Earlier media reports that cited 32 persons likely stemmed from a misinterpretation of the phrase “25 souls on board, inclusive of seven crew,” meaning the total number rather than an addition to the passenger count.
**Who were the civilians on the flight?**
The passengers were identified as family members of serving officers who were travelling to the same destination as the crew. The Air Force released a verified list of the victims after completing search and recovery operations and consulting with the affected families.
**What is the service’s response to the tragedy?**
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, told the [News Agency of Nigeria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/News_Agency_of_Nigeria) that the nation’s outpouring of sympathy has been a source of comfort. He stated, “These expressions of concern have been a source of comfort during this difficult period.” He added that the fallen were not merely statistics but cherished loved ones whose loss is deeply felt across the service and the country.
The Air Force continues to engage with bereaved families, offering appropriate assistance as they cope with their grief. A thorough investigation into the crash remains underway, and further details will be released when the inquiry yields conclusive findings.
Ejodame appealed to journalists and the public to report the incident with restraint and sensitivity, respecting the privacy of the families involved. Despite the heavy loss, personnel remain committed to ongoing operations across Nigeria’s various security theatres, confronting significant risks to safeguard citizens.
The service reaffirmed its dedication to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of its members and their families.