The Federal Government has broken its silence over the controversial landing of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Burkina Faso, firmly dismissing claims that the plane was involved in espionage or forced to land by foreign authorities.
Government Officials described the reports as false, misleading and deliberately circulated to confuse Nigerians.
The government clarified that the Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft was not on any covert or intelligence mission.
It stressed that the incident has been wrongly portrayed on social media, leading to unfounded speculation about Nigeria’s military operations and diplomatic relations within the West African region.
According to the Federal Government, the aircraft was on a duly approved ferry flight to Portugal for scheduled maintenance.
This maintenance was described as a routine and compulsory requirement for military transport aircraft, forming part of standard operational procedures.
Government Authorities emphasized that the flight had no operational or combat-related assignment.
It was explained that the aircraft carried all required flight clearances and international documentation. The precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, was carried out strictly for safety reasons and in line with global aviation regulations.
The government rejected claims that the aircraft was intercepted, seized, or forced to land by Burkinabe authorities. It also dismissed allegations of airspace violations or hostile intent, describing such narratives as fabricated and dangerous.
On reports suggesting espionage activities, officials stated that the personnel onboard were regular aircrew members and engineering support staff.
They were not intelligence officers, and the aircraft was not equipped with any surveillance or signal intelligence systems.
The Federal Government further clarified that it never announced the release of the crew, contrary to claims circulating online.
It confirmed that interactions between the Nigerian crew and authorities in Burkina Faso have remained professional, adding that the personnel have been in contact with their families.
Authorities noted that the matter is being handled through established diplomatic channels by relevant government ministries and agencies. They assured Nigerians that international protocols and bilateral relations are being fully respected.
The government warned that the spread of false information could damage Nigeria’s reputation, undermine public trust, and strain regional relationships.
Nigerians were urged to rely on verified information and avoid amplifying unconfirmed reports, particularly on national security matters.
I can see!! when a thief enter your house in d, night and you wake up’ he will said,he come to wake you for prayer. why maintenance? at a time when nigeria send troop to benin for coup intervention? And 11 combat soldier in uniform’ ok ooo!