Former Governor of Imo State, Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, has mourned the officers and civilians who died while aboard the ill-fated Nigerian Air Force aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, on Monday.

Describing the deceased as brave and gallant officers, airmen, airwomen, and civilian passengers, Ohakim said the news of their deaths was devastating, adding that it has left him and millions of Nigerians at home and abroad deeply pained and grief-stricken.

The former governor extended his deepest and most heartfelt condolences, noting 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.”

Ohakim also shared in the grief of 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.

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.

“I also convey my sincere sympathies to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and to all Nigerians mourning this national tragedy.”

Ohakim, who recently addressed Nigerian in the United Kingdom, used the opportunity to once again urge Nigerians in the Diaspora to stand firmly behind President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He said, “In times of national trial such as this, our unity, solidarity, and collective support for the leadership of our country become even more critical.

“May God continue to protect the men and women of our Armed Forces, comfort the grieving, and grant our nation the strength to overcome this dark hour.”