The Nigerian Air Force, NAF201, that crashed and killed six persons, including crew members on board, in Abuja, was said to be looking for Kagara kidnapped victims, a source revealed on Sunday evening.
Aviation sources said that the plane after refueling in Abuja on Sunday was on surveillance in search of the Kagara kidnapped victims in Niger State.
“The flight went to Abuja to refuel, lost an engine upon take off and couldn’t make it back to the runway as it tried to” the source said.
The source said that the Chief of Defence Staff was already at the airport. May the souls lost in national service, rest in peace.
However, the cause of the crash has also been revealed as Sen. Hadi Sirika, Minister of Aviation, said the aircraft reported engine failure at time 10.39 a.m. and finally crashed landed on the final approach path of Abuja Runway 22.
Meanwhile, President Mummadu Buhari has expressed sadness over the fatal crash that claimed the lives of seven personnel.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Femi Adesina, President Buhari on behalf of the Federal Government, extended his heartfelt condolences to family members, friends and colleagues of those who died as a result of this tragedy.
The President said he joined the Nigerian Air Force, the military and other Nigerians in mourning the unfortunate loss of the dedicated and courageous personnel, who died in the line of duty.
He said, “while investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, the safety of the Nigerian airspace remains a key priority of the government.”
The President prayed that God will comfort the bereaved families and nation, and grant the souls of the departed peaceful rest.