The Nigerian Air Force on Friday has said a presidential aircraft handed over to it by the presidency crashed following a ‘mishap while taxing’ in Makurdi, Benue State.

In a statement, Air Force spokesperson, Ayodele Famuyiwa said a panel has been inaugurated to investigate the incident.

“The attention of the Nigerian air force (NAF)has been drawn to media report on the crash of one of the Agusta Westland 101 helicopters handed over recently by the presidency,” he said.

“Contrary to the crash report, it is pertinent to state that the mishap occurred while the helicopter was taxing after a successful mission. The incident happened last week on the tarmac at 33 Logistics Group, Makurdi.

“The NAF has since set-up a board of officers to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the incident. The seven-man board is headed by Air-Vice Marshal Emmanuel Anebi. Details of the investigation would be communicated to the public as soon as the board concludes its assignment.”