The Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Organisation (PPCO) has mourned the death of five Nigerian Air Force(NAF) personnel who died on Wednesday in an helicopter crash in Damasak, Borno.
PPCO in a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan, on Friday in Abuja, condoled with the families of the deceased.
Ologbondiyan said the organisation noted that patriotic Nigerians risked and ultimately laid their down their lives for the continued existence of the nation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the personnel died while providing close air support to troops of 145 Battalion, Damasak, Borno, fighting against insurgents.
“Our party deeply appreciates and salutes the courage, gallantry and sacrifice of our troops, many of whom have paid the ultimate price in defending our nation and ensuring our safety.
“The PDP, therefore, condoles with our military high command, the families of the victims of the crash, as well as those of other soldiers who have died while protecting our nation.
“While praying God to console the bereaved, the PDP urges for more support, equipment and prayers for our soldiers as they daily risk their lives to keep the entire nation safe,’’ he said.
NAN reports that the Nigerian Air Force Agusta 106 Light Utility Helicopter crashed into the lagoon.
A statement issued by Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force said the pilot, co-pilot and three crew members died in the crash.
Daramola added that all the bodies of the deceased had been recovered and taken to Maiduguri, the state capital.
