PBAT Movement Mourns Ondo Crash Victims, Suspends Campaigns

The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement has suspended all its campaign activities for one week following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Ondo State.

The group said the decision was taken in honour of the military personnel and other victims of the crash, which occurred near a naval base in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, on Monday.

The national coordinator of the movement, Comrade Sunday Asuku, on Tuesday, said the suspension was directed by its grand patron, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.

He described the incident as a painful and monumental loss to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation.

“These officers paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, serving our country with courage, patriotism and unwavering commitment,” the statement quoted Tompolo as saying.

The movement extended condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the government and people of Ondo State, as well as the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.

It also commended the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Navy, first responders and local residents who joined search-and-rescue operations in the difficult terrain around the crash site.

The group called on military authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the cause of the crash to prevent a recurrence.

The Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, was on a routine flight from Benin City to Lagos when it crashed. President Tinubu has ordered an investigation into the incident and declared three days of national mourning.

The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement said its campaign activities would remain suspended for one week as a mark of respect for the victims.