Adebayo-Bugaje Campaign Suspends Activities Over NAF Crash

The Adebayo-Bugaje Presidential Campaign of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has suspended all national and state campaign activities for one week in honour of the 25 passengers and crew members who died in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was announced in a statement issued by the Head of Media and Communications Directorate of the campaign, Comrade Mark Adebayo.

The campaign described the crash as a “monumental national tragedy” and said politics should take a back seat to national mourning and reflection.

The presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, and his running mate, Professor Usman Bugaje, expressed condolences to the Chief of the Air Staff, the leadership of the NAF and the families of the victims.

The campaign said it stood in solidarity with the Nigerian Air Force, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the bereaved families during the period of national grief.

Consequently, all scheduled rallies, town hall meetings, stakeholder engagements and media activities under the Adebayo-Bugaje campaign across the country have been deferred until the one-week mourning period ends.

The campaign also called for the establishment of a comprehensive insurance policy for personnel of the Armed Forces and other security agencies in view of the sacrifices they make in the service of the nation.

It further urged the authorities to ensure proper and regular maintenance of military equipment to reduce the frequency of air crashes and other avoidable mishaps.

The campaign prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved families and the nation as they mourn the victims of the crash.