The House of Representatives yesterday disclosed that it was set to launch an independent inquest into the cause of the Sunday Dana Airline’s crash which claimed 153 lives of passengers on a scheduled trip from Abuja to Lagos.
The Lower House spokesman, Zakari Mohammed told newsmen in Kaduna that punitive measures would be meted to individuals and agencies found culpable in the crash.
Meanwhile, chair, House Committee on Aviation, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha said the committee would liaise with relevant organisations in the investigation into the crash.
In a statement made available to LEADERSHIP, Onyejeocha said, “We learnt of the crash of Dana air plane in Iju area of Lagos State with shocking disbelief and immense sadness. Nigeria has lost many able and talented men and women including children; may their souls rest in peace.
“Our condolence goes to the families of the bereaved both in this incident and the Cargo plane that crashed in Accra, Ghana killing at least 10 persons. Our hearts are with them in this time of grief. As we grieve, we must not allow our grief to overshadow our sense of responsibility. The lives of Nigerians ought not be wasted in this way. The safety of our space can no longer be compromised.”
Onyejeocha insisted that, “Regulatory authorities in the aviation sector must explain what happened. This incident should be thoroughly investigated to determine the exact cause of the accident in order to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“While we await the full report of the crash, the House of Representatives’ Committee on Aviation will get to the root of this matter and ensure that people are held accountable.
“The safety and security of passengers must remain priority to aviation authorities. We cannot return to the inglorious era of frequent plane crashes”.
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