NSIB declines direct investigation of Ondo NAF crash without military invitation

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has clarified it will not launch an investigation into the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft in Ondo State unless formally invited to do so by the military. Speaking on Monday, the NSIB explained that the incident involved a military aircraft, and thus, under the NSIB Establishment Act of 2022 and international practice, such accidents are investigated by the military authority.

The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the crash, which reportedly occurred while the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. The NSIB, while not refusing to assist, stated its position is to recognize the military's legal responsibility for investigating such incidents. If requested, the NSIB could provide technical assistance, such as deploying investigators and utilizing its Flight Safety Laboratory to recover and analyze flight data and cockpit voice recordings.

The NSIB also expressed sympathy for those affected by the crash, extending condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the families of those on board. The bureau urged the public to rely solely on official information from the Nigerian Air Force regarding the operation and any subsequent investigation.