The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has clarified that it will not independently investigate the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, unless it receives a formal invitation from the military.
The bureau, in a statement issued on Monday, said the incident involved a military aircraft and therefore falls outside its statutory investigative mandate.
According to the NSIB, military aviation accidents are handled by the military authorities in accordance with the NSIB Establishment Act, 2022, as well as established international aviation practice.
The aircraft, an ATR-42 operated by the Nigerian Air Force, crashed in Igbokoda while reportedly conducting a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the incident and commenced search-and-rescue operations in collaboration with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
The NSIB stressed that its decision not to launch an independent investigation should not be interpreted as a refusal to assist.
«“The NSIB does not investigate military accidents unless formally invited to do so by that authority,” the bureau stated.»
It added that it remains ready to provide technical assistance to the Nigerian Air Force should such support be requested.
Such assistance, according to the bureau, could include deploying accident investigators to the crash site and using its Flight Safety Laboratory to recover and analyse critical evidence, including flight data and cockpit voice recordings.
The bureau expressed condolences to the Nigerian Air Force, as well as the families, colleagues and associates of those on board the aircraft.
“Our thoughts are with them and with the search and rescue teams working at the site,” the NSIB said.
It also commended first responders and other agencies involved in the rescue efforts at Igbokoda.
The NSIB urged members of the public to rely on official information from the Nigerian Air Force regarding the ongoing search-and-rescue operation and any subsequent investigation.
The bureau further stated that it would release additional information only when necessary and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.