The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement has suspended its campaign activities following the death of military personnel in an aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.
The movement’s National Coordinator, Sunday Asuku, said the decision was taken by its Grand Patron, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, in response to the tragedy involving a Nigerian military aircraft.
The aircraft, an ATR-42, reportedly crashed on Monday near a naval base in Igbokoda while on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos. The incident claimed the lives of military personnel on board and prompted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
Tompolo described the incident as a painful loss to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the country, saying the deceased officers paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. He extended condolences to President Tinubu, the Armed Forces, the government and people of Ondo State, as well as the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.
The movement also commended the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Navy, first responders and local residents who participated in search and recovery efforts at the crash site. It called for a thorough and transparent investigation to determine the cause of the accident and help prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The movement initially announced a one-week suspension of its 2027 presidential campaign activities. A subsequent statement, however, said the suspension would affect scheduled programmes across several states and remain in force indefinitely, with a new timetable to be announced after the situation is reviewed.
The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement prayed for the repose of the souls of the fallen personnel and urged Nigerians to support their families and the Armed Forces during the period of mourning.
