PDP grieves over Nigerian Air Force helicopter crash in Borno

The Peoples Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Organization (PPCO) has condoled with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) over the crash of its helicopter, resulting in the death of five soldiers fighting insurgency in the northeast.

The party noted that the soldiers risked and ultimately laid their down their lives for Nigeria, while providing close air support to troops of 145 Battalion, Damasak in Borno state.

In a statement sent to and publicity, Kola Ologbodiyan on Friday, January 4, the PPCO hailed the NAF personnel, “who have continued to display unmatched courage in the fight against insurgents

Part of the statement read: “Our party deeply appreciates and salutes the courage, gallantry and sacrifice of our troops, many of whom have paid the ultimate price in defending our nation and ensuring our safety.

“The PDP, therefore, condoles with our military high command, the families of the victims of the crash, as well as those of other soldiers who have died while protecting our nation.

“While praying God to console the bereaved, the PDP urges for more support, equipment and prayers for our soldiers as they daily risk their lives to keep the entire nation safe.”

NAF director of public relations and information, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, gave the names of the deceased personnel as Flight Lieutenant Perowei Jacob, pilot in command; Flight Lieutenant Kaltho Paul Kilyofas, co-pilot; Sergeant Auwal Ibrahim, flight technician; Lance Corporal Adamu Nura, gunner and Aircraftman Meshack Ishmael, gunner.

He said the bodies of the deceased personnel had been recovered and taken to Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.