Squadron Leader Ahamefule Aham Man-Ugwueje, one of the pilots aboard the Nigerian Air Force aircraft that crashed in Ondo State, died just two weeks after his wedding to Flight Lieutenant Damilola Adekunle.
Man-Ugwueje was among the five crew members on board NAF 931, an ATR 42 aircraft that crashed in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State while undertaking a routine mission from Benin to Lagos.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed on Tuesday that all 25 people aboard the aircraft, comprising five crew members and 20 passengers, died in the accident.
The Air Force subsequently released the names of those who were on board the aircraft.
Wedding Took Place in Abuja
Man-Ugwueje married fellow Nigerian Air Force officer, Flight Lieutenant Damilola Adekunle, in Abuja on September 19, 2026.
Photographs and videos from the wedding ceremony were shared by vendors involved in the event, including wedding planner and videography service providers.
One of the videographers, Beejay Creates, shared footage from the ceremony with the caption, “Love in every word.”
The wedding took place just two weeks before the fatal aircraft accident.
Pilot’s Background
Information on Man-Ugwueje’s Facebook profile lists Umuahia, Abia State, as his hometown, while Abuja is listed as his current city.
The pilot’s death has brought renewed attention to the tragedy, particularly following the confirmation by the Nigerian Air Force that there were no survivors from the aircraft.
The accident has left the families, colleagues and loved ones of those aboard NAF 931 mourning.
The Nigerian Air Force has ordered a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash and has urged the public to avoid speculation or the circulation of unverified information.
For Man-Ugwueje’s family, colleagues and his newly married wife, the tragedy has come only days after what should have been the beginning of a new chapter in their lives.
