President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has mourned the 32 passengers and crew members killed in the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash near Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Akpabio described the crash as a deeply painful tragedy for the nation, particularly the Nigerian Air Force and the families of the victims.

The Senate President, in a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser, Eseme Eyiboh, commiserated with President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of the Air Staff, other Service Chiefs and the families of those who died.

Akpabio said the Nigerian Air Force ATR 42 aircraft crash resulted in the death of 32 people comprising 25 passengers and seven crew members.

He said the tragedy had robbed the nation of brave men and women who were serving the country.

Akpabio said Nigeria might mourn its fallen heroes but must never forget the courage with which they gave their lives in service to the country.

He expressed sympathy to the families and loved ones of the victims, as well as officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The Senate President prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and asked God to grant their families and the nation the strength to bear the loss.

He said the incident represented a profoundly painful moment for Nigeria, particularly the Nigerian Air Force.

Akpabio added that the Senate stood with the Armed Forces and the bereaved families at the difficult time.

He prayed that Almighty God would comfort the bereaved families and grant eternal rest to the fallen heroes.