The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has expressed grief over the recent crash involving a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft near Igbokoda, Ondo State.
A statement signed by the President of the association, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, on Tuesday informed that the association received the news of the crash with great shock
Part of the statement reads “On behalf of the Christian community in Nigeria, Archbishop Okoh expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased personnel, the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, and the people and Government of Ondo State.
He called for prayers for God’s comfort for everyone affected by this painful incident.
CAN notes further that , ‘The men and women of our Armed Forces make enormous sacrifices in the service of our nation. Their families also bear the weight of those sacrifices. At this difficult moment, our thoughts and prayers are particularly with the bereaved families and their colleagues in the Nigerian Air Force.
The Christian body also said it welcomes the decision to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. “We urge that the investigation be thorough, professional and transparent, and that its findings and safety recommendations receive the necessary attention.
“Every life lost is precious. We must therefore continue to strengthen aviation safety, aircraft maintenance, operational procedures and emergency response systems, particularly in the interest of personnel who undertake difficult assignments on behalf of the nation.”
The body called on Nigerians to remember the affected families and the Nigerian Air Force in their prayers. While praying that “God would grant eternal rest to the departed, comfort to the bereaved, and wisdom to all those entrusted with the responsibility of protecting lives.”
