PRESS STATEMENT
The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Ondo State Branch, expresses profound sadness over the tragic military aircraft crash in the Igbokoda axis of Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Following the incident, our trained Red Cross volunteers promptly mobilised and joined other emergency responders in the search-and-rescue and recovery efforts at the crash site. Regrettably, no survivor was found.
We commend the prompt and coordinated response of the Ondo State Government, particularly through the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency (ODSEMA), as well as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant security, emergency and humanitarian response agencies.
Their swift mobilisation, inter-agency coordination and commitment to the emergency response are highly commendable at this difficult time.
We also place on record our profound appreciation to the Nigerian Red Cross Society volunteers in Ondo State who responded courageously and selflessly at very short notice. Their professionalism, compassion and commitment to humanitarian service, even in a difficult and emotionally challenging environment, reflect the enduring principle of Humanity Above All.
On behalf of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Ondo State Branch, I extend our deepest condolences to the families, colleagues and loved ones of the victims, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and all those affected by this painful tragedy.
A CALL FOR STRONGER PREVENTION AND PREPAREDNESS
While we mourn this tragic loss, this incident must also reinforce the urgent need to continuously strengthen preventive measures, aviation safety, disaster preparedness and emergency response capacity.
We call on the relevant authorities to ensure that lessons from this incident and the outcome of the appropriate investigations are translated into concrete preventive measures to minimise the risk of similar tragedies in the future.
We further advocate for strengthened inter-agency emergency preparedness and coordination among NEMA, ODSEMA, the Nigerian Red Cross Society, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders, regular simulation exercises, improved search-and-rescue capabilities, effective communication and early-warning systems, adequate emergency equipment, and continuous training and capacity-building for responders and volunteers.
The Nigerian Red Cross Society, Ondo State Branch, remains ready to support the Ondo State Government, NEMA, ODSEMA and other relevant agencies in strengthening community preparedness, first aid, search and rescue, disaster response, psychosocial support and other humanitarian interventions across the state.
We urge members of the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the bereaved families and to refrain from circulating unverified information or distressing images from the scene.
This tragedy reminds us that preparedness must precede disaster. We must remain vigilant, better prepared and collectively committed to preventing avoidable loss of life.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of the victims and all those affected by this tragedy.
May Almighty God grant the departed eternal rest and give their families, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss.
Humanity Above All.
Dr. Sola Adewale
Chairman
Nigerian Red Cross Society, Ondo State Branch
