NAF Tragedy: Gov. Diri Orders Support For Families Of Four Bayelsan Air Crash Victims

The Bayelsa State Executive Council on Wednesday, has observed a minute’s silence in honour of four Bayelsans who lost their lives in the ill-fated Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft crash in Ondo State on Monday.

Hotnews reports that the victims were identified as Flight Lieutenant Tarila Lazarus from Southern Ijaw Local Government Area; Sergeant Izibenikien Samuel from Yenagoa; Sergeant Ebimobowei Charles Alafuka from Ekeremor; and Godstime Tarabina from Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area.

Governor Douye Diri, who presided over the 198th Executive Council meeting at Government House, Yenagoa, expressed grief over the tragedy, saying the incident had deeply affected the government and people of Bayelsa State.

Governor Diri said he had earlier condoled with President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of the Air Staff and the families of the victims before the identities of the Bayelsan casualties were made public.

He noted that, in line with the President’s directive, flags in the state were flying at half-mast.

The Governor assured the affected families of the state government’s support, saying his administration would liaise with relevant authorities to take steps to alleviate their pain.

The council also reflected on the successful celebration of Bayelsa State’s 30th anniversary.

Governor Diri thanked Bayelsans, government officials, committee members, diplomats, federal agencies and other stakeholders for their participation, stressing that the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the state’s past, present and future.

He urged the people to sustain the spirit of unity and togetherness displayed during the celebrations and called on politicians to ensure that the approaching political season remained issue-based and civil.

Governor Diri also announced plans to develop short- and long-term development plans for Bayelsa before the end of his tenure, with the aim of providing a framework for continuity across successive administrations.

Meanwhile, the Governor received two awards in recognition of his administration’s transformative development and people-centered governance.

The Bayelsa State Ministry of Justice presented him with an award from the Law Officers’ Institution of Nigeria and inducted him into its Hall of Fame.

While the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment presented an MSME award naming him an MSME Development Champion and Friendly Governor.

Receiving the recognitions, Diri said they would encourage his administration to continue doing more for the people, noting that appreciation from stakeholders remained a motivation for government.

~ Hot News Reporters
Thursday 8, October, 2026