The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has said it will not independently investigate the Nigerian Air Force aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo State, unless the military formally invites it to take part.
The NSIB said in a statement on Monday that the incident involved a military aircraft and was therefore outside its legal responsibility.
“This occurrence involves a military aircraft,” the bureau said, explaining that military aviation accidents are handled by the military under the NSIB Establishment Act, 2022, and international practice.
The aircraft, an ATR-42 operated by the Nigerian Air Force, crashed on Monday while reportedly carrying out a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the crash and began search and rescue operations with relevant authorities and emergency agencies.
The NSIB clarified that its decision was not a refusal to help but a recognition of the military’s legal responsibility to investigate such incidents.
“The NSIB does not investigate military accidents unless formally invited to do so by that authority,” it said.
However, the bureau said it was ready to provide technical support if requested by the Nigerian Air Force.
It said its assistance could include sending investigators to the crash site and using its Flight Safety Laboratory to recover and analyse flight data and cockpit voice recordings.
The NSIB also expressed sympathy to the Nigerian Air Force and the families and colleagues of those on board the aircraft.
“Our thoughts are with them and with the search and rescue teams working at the site,” the bureau said.
It also praised first responders and other agencies involved in the rescue operation at Igbokoda.
The bureau urged the public to rely on official information from the Nigerian Air Force about the search and rescue operation and any investigation that may follow.
It added that any further information from the NSIB would only be released when necessary and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.
