The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has called for a thorough investigation into the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft at the Benin Airport, while expressing gratitude that all passengers and crew members escaped unhurt.
In a statement, Obi described the safe evacuation of all 68 occupants as a blessing and thanked God that no lives were lost in the incident.
He commended the pilot, flight crew and airport emergency responders for their professionalism and swift response, noting that their actions helped prevent what could have been a more serious aviation accident.
The former Anambra State governor said the incident highlights the need for strict adherence to aviation safety standards, regular aircraft maintenance and sustained investment in airport infrastructure across the country.
Obi urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to carry out a comprehensive, transparent and timely investigation into the circumstances surrounding the runway excursion and make their findings public.
According to him, every aviation incident should serve as an opportunity to strengthen safety systems and improve public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Enugu Air had earlier confirmed that one of its Embraer E170 aircraft veered off the runway after landing at Benin Airport on Thursday. The airline said all passengers and crew members safely disembarked without injuries and that the aircraft had been secured.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has since commenced an investigation to determine the cause of the incident and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence.
