The widows of military officers who tragically lost their lives in a 1992 plane crash in Oke-Afa, Ejigbo area of Lagos State, have come forward to highlight the ongoing neglect they have endured for nearly 32 years. The article sheds light on their call to the Federal Government and the Defence Headquarters to release entitlements meant for the late officers, which, to date, have not reached the families.
The incident in question occurred on September 26, 1992, when a military plane, Hercules C-130, carrying 163 middle-ranking army, navy, and air force officers crashed just five minutes after taking off from Lagos. The impact of this tragedy has reverberated through the years, affecting the families left behind.
The widows spoke out during the visit of Mrs. Oghogho Musa, President of Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), in Port Harcourt. The visit was part of an initiative to distribute palliatives to the wives of fallen heroes in commemoration of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. Mrs. Musa, received by Major-Gen, Jamal Abdussalam, distributed essential supplies to the widows, emphasizing love and commitment from the Defence Headquarters.
During the emotional moment, Mrs. Folake Lasisi, the wife of late Lt.-Commander Lasisi of the Nigeria Navy, expressed deep regret that the entitlements meant for the widows of the 1992 plane crash victims had not been released. She urged the government to review and expedite the payment, underlining the urgency as many widows and children have passed away over the years.
Lasisi emphasized the need for recognition, saying, "We want to feel a sense of belonging, even though our husbands are no longer there." She urged the authorities to address the educational needs of the children left behind, emphasizing that the widows of the Hercules C-130 crash have not received their entitlements after 31 years.
In response, Mrs. Oghogho Musa acknowledged the sacrifices made by the late military personnel and assured the widows of continued support. She praised the Renewed Hope Initiative led by Senator Oluremi Tinubu and expressed gratitude for the commitment of the Armed Forces to the families of deceased soldiers.
Source: The Guardian
