The former Governor of Imo State, Dr Ikedi Ohakim, has called on all well-meaning Nigerians, especially those in the diaspora, to show solidarity with President Bola Tinubu and his leadership in the wake of the tragic Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
THE WHISTLER reports that the crash claimed twenty-five lives, including air force personnel and some civilians. Ohakim, in a condolence message delivered to Nigerians in the diaspora, which was made available to our reporter, called for collective support to the FG in this trying moment.
He stated that, “Having just addressed Nigerian diasporans here in the United Kingdom, I used the opportunity to once again urge our people in the diaspora to stand firmly behind President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda. In times of national trial such as this, our unity, solidarity, and collective support for the leadership of our country become even more critical.”
He described the victims as “brave men and women of the Nigerian Air Force — gallant officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian passengers”. He said the news about their death left him, “like millions of Nigerians at home and abroad, deeply pained and grief-stricken”.
He therefore extended condolences to the bereaved family, stating that, “No words can fully ease the anguish of losing your loved ones so suddenly. May the Almighty God grant you the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, and may the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace. Their sacrifice in the line of duty will never be forgotten.”
He also sympathised with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the entire leadership and personnel of the Nigerian Air Force, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria over the incident.
He said, “I share in your collective grief. This is a deeply painful moment for the Service and for our nation. The Nigerian Air Force remains a pillar of our national security, and the courage of those who wear the uniform continues to inspire us all.”
Ohakim also conveyed his sympathies to President Tinubu, and to all Nigerians mourning this national tragedy, praying God to “protect the men and women of our Armed Forces, comfort the grieving, and grant our nation the strength to overcome this dark hour”.