NAF recovers more components from crashed aircraft as Okpebholo mourns pilot

The Nigerian Air Force has recovered additional components from its ATR 42-500 aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, as search and recovery operations continue at the site.

The Air Force announced the development in a statement shared on its official X account on Wednesday, adding that specialist divers from the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau were working with its recovery team to conduct underwater searches.

The operation involves hydrographic surveys, satellite-based search-and-rescue imagery, excavation of mud and the removal of excess water to reach areas identified for investigation.

According to the NAF, the teams are working round the clock to recover materials that could be documented and preserved as evidence for the ongoing investigation.

“Additional aircraft components have been recovered as efforts continue to locate and retrieve relevant materials for documentation and preservation in support of the ongoing investigation,” the statement said.

The aircraft, identified as NAF 931, crashed on October 5, 2026, in Igbokoda, killing everyone on board. Investigators are continuing efforts to retrieve evidence that could help establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Okpebholo mourns Edo-born pilot

Meanwhile, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has mourned Squadron Leader Mahmoud Idanegbe Aburime, describing his death as a major loss to his family, community and the country.

Aburime, who hailed from Uwessan in Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, was the pilot of the ill-fated aircraft.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Okpebholo extended his condolences to the officer’s wife, daughter, parents and other relatives, as well as residents of Uwessan.

The governor said the pilot’s death was particularly painful because of their shared community roots, adding that the loss would be felt across Edo State and the Nigerian Air Force.

He also recalled Aburime’s humility while studying Mass Communication at the University of Benin, noting that his classmates remembered him as a quiet and gentle person who did not draw attention to his military rank.

According to Okpebholo, the officer remained committed to his education despite the demands of his military career and sat a make-up examination at the university just days before the crash.

The governor said Aburime’s determination to continue learning, alongside his service to the country, reflected his discipline and commitment to personal development.

Okpebholo also expressed sympathy to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, the Nigerian Air Force, the deceased’s colleagues and university coursemates, and the families of the other victims.

He urged young people in Edo State to draw inspiration from the pilot’s dedication to service, education, discipline and humility.

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