Kefas added that Bako’s death was particularly painful because he and the deceased belonged to the same professional constituency — the military.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has expressed sadness over the death of Flight Lieutenant I.S. Bako, the co-pilot of the NAF aircraft which crashed in the Igbokoda axis of Ondo State recently.
He mourned the officer, who was a Taraba indigene, on Wednesday in a statement signed on his behalf by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello.
Bako was among the five crew members of the ill-fated military aircraft in which 20 other military personnel who were on board as passengers also lost their lives.
In a condolence message made available to journalists in Jalingo, the state capital, Governor Kefas described the incident as a national tragedy.
While commiserating with the Nigerian military over the loss and extending his condolences to the deceased’s family, colleagues, and the people of Taraba State, he noted that the country had lost some of its finest military officers in the crash.
“Taraba has lost a gallant son who served the nation with dedication, professionalism, and patriotism,” Kefas said.
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He went on to state that Flight Lt I.S. Bako died in active service and deserved to be remembered and honoured for his contributions to the country.
Kefas said the death was particularly painful to him because he and the deceased belonged to the same professional constituency, the military.
Beyond their professional connection, the governor described Bako as a promising young officer and fellow citizen whose life was cut short by the tragic incident.
He said the late officer would be remembered for his professionalism, good character, and friendliness—qualities which, he noted, endeared him to his family, friends, and colleagues in the military.
The governor also described Bako as a courageous and disciplined military officer who willingly undertook difficult assignments in the course of his service to the nation.
The statement further assured that the deceased’s contributions to national security would not be forgotten, adding that his dedication and work ethic would remain a reference point for younger generations in the military.
He prayed for the repose of Bako’s soul and asked God to grant his immediate family, colleagues, and the people of Taraba State the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
