RismadarVoice Reporters, July 24, 2026
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for a thorough investigation into the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft at the Benin Airport in Edo State.
In a statement, Obi expressed gratitude that all 68 passengers and crew members on board the Embraer E170 aircraft were safely evacuated without injuries or fatalities, describing the preservation of human life as the highest priority.
He commended the pilot, cabin crew and airport emergency response teams for their swift and professional handling of the incident, which he said prevented a more serious outcome.
Obi also urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau to conduct a transparent and timely investigation into the incident and make their findings public.
He stressed that the occurrence underscores the need for strict adherence to aviation safety standards, regular aircraft maintenance and sustained investment in airport infrastructure to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
