Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed relief over the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft during landing at Benin Airport, describing the safe evacuation of all passengers and crew as a cause for gratitude.

 

In a statement on Friday, Obi said he joined Nigerians in thanking God that all 68 passengers and crew members on board the aircraft disembarked safely without injuries or fatalities.

 

He commended the pilot, flight crew and airport emergency response personnel for their swift and professional handling of the incident, noting that their calm response helped avert what could have been a major tragedy.

 

While celebrating the safe outcome, Obi said the incident underscored the need for strict compliance with aviation safety standards, routine aircraft maintenance and sustained investment in airport infrastructure across the country.

 

He called on the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to conduct a comprehensive, transparent and timely investigation to determine the cause of the runway excursion.

 

According to him, lessons from such incidents are essential to strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector and ensuring the continued safety of air travel.

 

Obi also prayed for the safety and protection of all travellers across the country.