No survivors as military aircraft crashes near Abuja airport
A military plane has just crashed near Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, amidst reports that there were no survivors.
Aviation minister Hadi Sirika confirmed the development in a short statement on Twitter Sunday afternoon.
“A military aircraft King Air 350 has just crashed short of our Abuja runway after reporting engine failure enroute Minna. It appears to be fatal. We should remain calm & wait for the outcome of investigation by the military, while we pray for the departed soul/souls if any,” the minister said.
Nigerian Air Force spokesman Ibikunle Daramola confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday afternoon.
Mr. Daramola said a Beechcraft KingAir B350i aircraft logged an engine failure on its way to Minna and crashed while returning to Abuja. All seven officials on board died in the crash, which triggered a massive explosion near the airport.
An investigation into the cause of the crash has been ordered by the Chief of the Air Staff Isiaka Amao, the spokesman said.
Nigerians have expressed sadness about the development and also demanded an urgent investigation. Opposition leader Atiku Abubakar extended condolences to the families of the departed officers, whom he said put in their best in service to the nation.
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