NIGERIA: The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Ibrahim Attahiru and 10 others have died in an air crash on Friday evening.
The Chief of Army Staff was going to Kaduna from the Federal Capital Territory when the plane crashed at about 6 pm.
He was said to be on board with 10 other officers including the crew.
Military Confirms Air Crash
A statement by the Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Mohammed Yerima confirms the incident in a press statement.
The statement read, “The Nigerian Army regrets to announce the passing away of its Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Ibrahim Attahiru. The sad event occurred following an air crash in Kaduna which also claimed the lives of 10 other officers including the crew.
“The COAS was en route Kaduna from Abuja on Friday, 21 May 2021 when the unfortunate incident happened.
“Details of the sad incident and burial arrangements will be communicated soon.”
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Nigeria’s President Mourns Chief of Army Staff
Nigeria President, Muhammadu Buhari has said that the crash which claimed the lives of the Chief of Army Staff and ten others is one mortal blow to the underbelly of the nation.
He declared his sadness over the crash saying that it is coming at a time when the nation’s armed forces are poised to end the security challenges facing the country.
The President expressed this in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President, Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina which was posted on his Twitter handle.
The statement read, “President Muhammadu Buhari is deeply saddened over the air crash that claimed the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, and other military officers.
“While praying that God receives the souls of the patriots, the President says the crash “is one mortal blow to our underbelly, at a time our armed forces are poised to end the security challenges facing the country.”
“The President pledged that the departed would not die in vain.”
The President them condoled with the families of the deceased, the military, and Nigerians in general, describing them as “heroes who paid the ultimate price for peace and security in the land.”
Officers Killed in the Crash
The Officers in the Chief of Army Staff entourage include Brigadier General M.I. Abdulkadir, Brigadier General Olayinka, Brigadier General Kuliya, Major L.A Hayat, Major Hamza and Sergeant Umar.
The Crew on Board include, FLT Lt. T.O Asaniyi, FLT Lt. A.A Olufade and Sergeant Adesina.
