Dana Air Crash: Jonathan Vows To Punish Culprit

In view of many speculations about probable causes of the tragic crash of Dana Airlines flight 0992 in Lagos, President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerians not to "rush to judgment" but to wait for the outcome of government’s investigation on the incident.

The president further pledged that the investigation would not  just be another form of government’s investigation that usually ends up in the trash bin even as he vowed “firm action” if any dereliction of duty is established.

Mr Jonathan stated this on Wednesday during a special executive council meeting in honour of those who lost their lives in the Dana air crash.

His words:

“I have directed that the fullest possible investigation be undertaken into the remote and immediate causes of the crash with a view to ensuring that the proper lessons are learnt from it, and that going forward, every necessary measure is effectively implemented to enhance the safety of air travellers in

Nigeria.

“In the past few days since the crash, our newspapers, airwaves, and social media have been awash with all manner of theories and speculations on the cause of the tragedy. I urge that there should be no rush to judgment.

“The lives of all Nigerians and foreigners in our country are precious to this administration. We will continue to do everything possible to protect lives and prevent avoidable deaths.

“I assure all Nigerians and the international community that the investigations which I have ordered will be very thorough. Let me warn that where clear dereliction of duty is established, firm action will be taken.

“This administration stands ready to take whatever action may become necessary after the investigation to prevent the recurrence of air mishaps.”

Meanwhile,  Minister of Aviation Stella Oduah told Journalists at the state house that the pilot of the ill fated plane reported a twin engine problem shortly before it went off the radar and crashed into a densely populated suburb of Lagos killing all 153 passengers on board.

"It was shortly after the captain's distress call that the aircraft could no longer be seen in the radar and communication was lost," the minister explained.

June 07, 2012