By Isaac Mission
Former Anambra State Governor and 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, while expressing gratitude that everyone on board escaped unharmed.
The incident occurred on Thursday when an Enugu Air Embraer E170, operating a flight from Lagos to Benin, veered off the runway after landing. All 68 passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, with no injuries or fatalities recorded.
Reacting in a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, Obi described the safe outcome as a great relief and thanked God for the protection of everyone on the flight.
He noted that the preservation of lives should always remain the highest priority in aviation and commended the professionalism displayed by the pilot, cabin crew and airport emergency response teams.
According to Obi, their calm and coordinated actions helped prevent what could have developed into a more serious situation.
While welcoming the fact that no lives were lost, the former governor stressed that the incident highlights the need for strict compliance with aviation safety regulations, routine aircraft maintenance, and sustained investment in airport facilities and operational standards.
He urged the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) to carry out an independent, transparent and timely investigation into the circumstances surrounding the runway excursion and make their findings public.
Obi said every aviation incident should serve as an opportunity to improve safety measures, strengthen regulatory systems and reinforce public confidence in Nigeria's aviation industry.
He also offered prayers for the continued safety of air travellers across the country.
Earlier, Enugu Air confirmed that one of its aircraft experienced a runway excursion after landing at Benin Airport. The airline assured the public that all passengers and crew members disembarked safely without injuries.
The airline added that the aircraft had been secured and the relevant aviation authorities notified in accordance with established safety procedures. It also warned that the incident could lead to temporary adjustments to some of its flight schedules, assuring affected passengers of the necessary support.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau has commenced an investigation into the incident to determine its cause and recommend measures aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future.
