ABIA STATE, NIGERIA — October 7, 2026
The NDC Senatorial Candidate for Abia Central Senatorial District, Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, PhD, CON, has expressed deep sadness over the tragic death of Squadron Leader Ahamefule Aham Man-Ugwueje, an Abia-born Nigerian Air Force officer who was among the 25 people who lost their lives in the crash of a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft, NAF 931, in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that Squadron Leader Man-Ugwueje served as the co-pilot aboard the aircraft, which was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when the accident occurred on October 5, 2026. The Air Force has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
In a condolence message, Senator Nwaogu described the death of Squadron Leader Man-Ugwueje and the other military personnel aboard the aircraft as a painful loss to their families, the Nigerian Air Force, Abia Central Senatorial District, Abia State and the entire nation.
She commiserated with the Man-Ugwueje family, the people of Umuahia, the amiable people of Abia Central Senatorial District, the Nigerian Air Force and the families of all the victims, praying that God grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
The Senator particularly expressed sympathy over the circumstances surrounding the young officer’s death, having reportedly married Flight Lieutenant Damilola Adekunle in Abuja on September 19, 2026, barely 16 days before the tragic incident.
Senator Nwaogu honoured Squadron Leader Man-Ugwueje as a courageous Nigerian who served his country with dedication and paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
She also prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of all those who perished in the crash, while asking God to comfort their loved ones and grant the nation the strength to overcome the painful loss.
May the souls of the fallen heroes rest in perfect peace. Amen.
About The Author
