Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has called on aviation authorities to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft at the Benin Airport, saying the incident should serve as a lesson for strengthening aviation safety in the country.
Obi made the call on Friday while reacting to Thursday's incident in which an Enugu Air Embraer E170 aircraft veered off the runway after landing at the Benin Airport, Edo State.
All 68 passengers and crew members on board escaped unhurt after emergency responders safely evacuated them from the aircraft.
In a statement posted on his X handle, the former Anambra State governor expressed gratitude that no lives were lost, describing the safe outcome as a source of relief.
"I received the news of the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft at Benin Airport with profound relief. I join all Nigerians in thanking God Almighty that all 68 passengers and crew members on board disembarked safely, with no injuries or fatalities recorded. The preservation of human life must always remain our highest priority," he said.
Obi praised the pilot, cabin crew and airport emergency personnel for their prompt response and professionalism, saying their efforts prevented the incident from turning into a major tragedy.
"I commend the pilot, the flight crew, and the airport emergency response teams at Benin Airport for their swift, professional, and coordinated handling of the situation, which helped avert what could have been a far more serious incident. Their composure and decisiveness under pressure deserve the highest commendation," he added.
He, however, stressed that the incident highlighted the need for greater attention to aviation safety, insisting that aircraft maintenance, strict compliance with operational procedures and continued investment in airport infrastructure should remain top priorities.
"The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of unwavering adherence to aviation safety protocols, rigorous aircraft maintenance, and sustained investment in airport infrastructure and operational standards across the country," Obi stated.
The former governor specifically called on the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to investigate the incident thoroughly and make their findings public.
"I urge the relevant regulatory and investigative authorities, particularly the NCAA and the NSIB, to conduct a thorough, transparent and timely investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident and to make their findings and recommendations public," he said.
According to him, every aviation incident should be treated as an opportunity to improve safety systems and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria's aviation sector.
Enugu Air had earlier confirmed that one of its aircraft experienced a runway excursion after landing in Benin, assuring passengers that there were no injuries or fatalities.
The airline said the aircraft had been secured while the appropriate aviation authorities were notified in line with standard procedures. It also disclosed that investigations had commenced and warned that some flight schedules could be adjusted as a result of the incident.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has since opened an investigation into the occurrence to determine its cause and recommend measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
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