Hadi Sirka, the minister of aviation announced first broke the sad news on Twitter, explaining that the aircraft crashlanded after experiencing an engine failure on way to Minna, Niger state. The unfortunate incident has drawn mournful reactions and condolences from Nigerians.

Nigerians mourn 7 personnel who died as military plane crashes in Abuja. Photo credit: @wyrelessng Source: Twitter Nigeria’s former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, reacted on Twitter: “I have just learnt of the crash of a military aircraft near Abuja. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those onboard the ill-fated flight.” Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, @ShehuSani, said: “For those who perished in the Abuja Plane crash,May their souls Rest In Peace.May the Almighty give their families the fortitude to bear the loss.Ameen.” FS Yusuf, @FS_Yusuf_, said:

“Sad to hear the news of the crash of our King Air 305. My thoughts & prayers with the families of those involved. May the departed souls (if any) rest in peace. Our country is going through hard times, but we shall emerge stronger. Let’s remain united and continue to do our bit.” Former lawmaker, Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, @benmurraybruce, said: “My condolences to the Nigerian military, families and loved ones of all Nigerian Airforce personnel on King Air 350. May their be souls rest in peace. Sad day.”

Meanwhile, Air Vice-Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, the Nigerian Air Force’s spokesman, has also confirmed the crash, adding that all seven personnel on board died.

According to Daramola, the aircraft crashed while returning to the Abuja Airport after reporting engine failure en-route Minna, Niger state. He said the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Vice Marshal IO Amao, has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident.