The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) has released more report on the two fighter jets that collided in Abuja on Friday, saying one of the two pilots who ejected has died.
The pilot flew the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed in Katampe area in Abuja.
Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.
“It is with a heavy heart that I regretfully announce that one of the pilots who successfully ejected from one of the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed earlier today has passed on.
“May his soul rest in peace. Additional details on the incident will be communicated,” Daramola said.
It is with a heavy heart that I regretfully announce that one of the pilots who successfully ejected from one of the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed earlier today has passed on. May his soul RIP. Additional details on the incident will be communicated later. Thank you
— Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola (@KunleDaramola3) September 28, 2018
NAN reports that two NAF aircraft had crashed in the FCT when they were performing rehearsal for Nigeria’s 58th Independence Anniversary in the territory on Friday morning.
The accident happened when the two aircraft were carrying out their daily rehearsal ahead of their display during Nigeria’s 58th independence anniversary on October 1.
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The two pilots were said to have ejected from the aircraft.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had on September 17, told Abuja residents that it was carrying out aerial display as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 58th Anniversary in Abuja.
“Consequently, there will be movement of NAF aircraft within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) from now till October 2 , as NAF pilots commence rehearsals for the occasion,” he said.
Daramola said that fighter aircraft would be flying at low level during the rehearsals.
“The NAF, therefore, wishes to advise members of the public not to panic but to go about their normal businesses,” Daramola said.
