The Federal Government has launched an investigation into the detention of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 aircraft by Burkinabe authorities after the jet made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso on Monday.
Local reports indicate that the aircraft was held over an alleged violation of Burkina Faso’s airspace.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the government is closely monitoring the situation.
“We are monitoring the situation and will issue a statement when we receive adequate information,” Ebienfa told journalists.
The aircraft was carrying 11 personnel — two crew members and nine soldiers — when it requested an emergency landing while flying through Burkinabe airspace.
Authorities in Burkina Faso said the incident occurred due to “the absence of authorisation to fly over the territory of Burkina Faso for this military device.”