Peter Obi Urges NCAA, NSIB to Probe Enugu Air Runway Excursion at Benin Airport

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft at Benin Airport, saying the incident reinforces the need to strengthen aviation safety standards across Nigeria.

Obi made the call on Friday in a statement posted on his official social media platforms while reacting to the incident, which occurred during the aircraft's landing at Benin Airport.

The former Anambra State governor expressed relief that all 68 passengers and crew members on board the aircraft escaped without injuries or loss of life.

"I received, with profound relief, the news of the runway excursion involving an Enugu Air aircraft during its landing at Benin Airport today," Obi said.

He described the safe evacuation of everyone on board as the most important outcome of the incident, stressing that protecting human lives must remain the aviation sector's highest priority.

Obi also commended the pilot, cabin crew and emergency response personnel at Benin Airport for what he described as their swift, coordinated and professional response, which helped prevent the situation from escalating into a major disaster.

"I commend the pilot, the flight crew, and the airport emergency response teams at Benin Airport for their swift and professional handling of the situation, which averted what could have been a major tragedy," he said.

According to Obi, the incident serves as another reminder of the importance of maintaining rigorous safety standards throughout Nigeria's aviation industry.

He emphasised the need for strict compliance with aviation safety regulations, regular aircraft maintenance, continuous safety audits and sustained investment in airport infrastructure to minimise operational risks.

The former governor urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to carry out a thorough, transparent and timely investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the runway excursion.

"I urge the relevant regulatory and investigative bodies, particularly the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to conduct a thorough, transparent and timely investigation into the root cause of this incident," Obi stated.

He said the findings of the investigation should not only establish accountability where necessary but also provide practical recommendations to strengthen aviation safety and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Obi added that every safety incident presents an opportunity to improve operational standards and reinforce public confidence in Nigeria's aviation industry.

He expressed hope that lessons from the Benin Airport incident would be effectively implemented to ensure the country's airspace remains safe, reliable and secure for passengers, airline operators and aviation personnel.