The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has released the names of 25 people who died in the military aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State, providing the first official identification of victims of the tragedy.

The list, contained in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, comprises five crew members and 20 passengers. The aircraft involved was NAF 931, which was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when it crashed on Monday.

The five crew members identified by the Air Force are Squadron Leader MI Aburime, the flight captain; Squadron Leader AP Man-Ugwueje, co-pilot; Flight Lieutenant IS Bako, co-pilot; Warrant Officer Abubakar A, an aircraft technician; and Corporal Uguru HC, also an aircraft technician.

The 20 passengers named by the NAF are Flight Lieutenant TL Lazarus, Flight Lieutenant M Akinloye, Flying Officer IM Adeshina, Master Warrant Officer Onwuka F, Master Warrant Officer Matini BA, Warrant Officer Nuhu FS, Flight Sergeant James RB, Flight Sergeant Mohammed AI, Sergeant Ani AE, Sergeant Izibenikien SI, Sergeant Alafuka C, Sergeant Mbadugha AN, Lance Corporal Ugwuba FC, Lance Corporal Eledan GE, Mrs Ezeh Nneka, Godstmine Tarabina, Joy Micheal, Sunday Micheal, Ukeme David and Gideon Omotola.

The NAF said search-and-rescue operations were activated immediately after the crash, with relevant authorities involved in efforts to locate and account for those aboard the aircraft. The Service said no survivor had been found.

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, expressed condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of those who died, describing the incident as a painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the country. He also directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.

The latest NAF statement differs from earlier official information that put the number of people aboard the aircraft at 32, comprising 25 passengers and seven crew members. The Presidency and Federal Ministry of Aviation had previously confirmed the 32-person figure, making the newly released 25-name list an issue that may require further clarification from the authorities.

The Air Force urged members of the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified information, while respecting the privacy and dignity of the affected families. The Service said further verified updates would be provided as the investigation into the crash continues.