Pro-Tinubu movement suspends activities over NAF crash

The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement 2027, a pro-President Bola Tinubu support group, has suspended its activities indefinitely, following the tragic crash of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The accident claimed the lives of 25 officers and seven crew members.

The National Coordinator of the movement, Mr Sunday Adekanbi Asuku, announced this in a statement in Kaduna on Wednesday.

Asuku said the movement’s Grand Patron, Mr Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, directed the suspension in solidarity with the Federal Government, the Nigerian Air Force, families of the deceased and Nigerians mourning the incident.

He said the decision affected programmes scheduled to hold in Benue, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun and Lagos states.

Asuku said the suspension was necessary because it would be inappropriate for the movement to proceed with political activities while the nation was mourning.

He said the decision was taken despite extensive preparations for the programmes, noting that dates had already been fixed and supporters in the affected states were awaiting the movement’s arrival.

The coordinator said the movement considered standing with the nation during the period of mourning more important than proceeding with its planned activities.

He conveyed Tompolo’s condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Air Force, families of the deceased personnel and Nigerians across the country.

According to him, the sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces in the service of the nation deserves national recognition, adding that the incident was a painful reminder of the risks military personnel undertake in defending the country.

Asuku apologised to members, supporters and stakeholders who had made preparations for the suspended programmes, assuring them that the movement had not abandoned its planned engagements.

He said a new timetable would be drawn up after a review of the situation, adding that members and supporters would be informed through appropriate channels.

He urged members to remain calm and patient and called on Nigerians to continue praying for the families of the deceased personnel, the Armed Forces and the country.

The movement reaffirmed its commitment to its objectives and nationwide mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.