Yakowa, Azazi’s Death: Lawmakers Call For Probe

Two members of the House of Representatives and a lawmaker in the Lagos State House of Assembly have called for thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the crash of the Navy helicopter which claimed the lives of Kaduna State Governor, Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa; former National Security Adviser (NSA), General Andrew Owoye Azazi, and four others on Saturday.

James Abiodun Faleke from Ikeja Federal Constituency, his counterpart from Oshodi-Isolo Federal Constituency 2, Hakeem Abiodun Muniru   and member of the Lagos State House of Assembly for Lagos Island Constituency 2, Wahab Alawiye-King, while condoling with the families of the deceased stated that only a thorough investigation into the sad event would prevent future occurrence.

“I was devastated by the news and up till now, I’m still in shock. My heart goes out to the family of the deceased and I pray that God gives them the fortitude to bear the loss. This is indeed a monumental tragedy,” Faleke, Chairman of the House Committee on Anti-Corruption, Ethics and National Values, said.

“There is need for thorough and urgent investigation into this crash. Not only that the report of such investigation must be acted upon with immediate urgency by the Federal Government if we are to prevent future occurrence. This is a matter that must not be toyed with,” he said.

Muniru recalled that another helicopter carrying a serving Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Late John Ahmadu crashed shortly after take-off in Jos early March this year killing all on board.

“We must investigate this latest tragedy and make the report known. It is important that we know what is causing this so as to take steps to prevent future occurrence,” he said.

Alawiye-King wondered why reports of previous air crashes have not been released.

The Lagos lawmaker stated that the latest crash should not be swept under the carpet, saying; “This calls for thorough investigation and the Federal Government must act appropriately to prevent innocent Nigerians dying needlessly in the air,” he said.

Alawiye-King prayed to God to give the deceased eternal rest.