BREAKING: House of Reps Probes Continued Detention of 11 NAF Personnel in Burkina Faso
Abuja, Nigeria | December 17, 2025 — Nigeria’s House of Representatives has commenced an urgent investigation into the continued detention of a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) C-130 Hercules aircraft and its 11-man crew by authorities in Burkina Faso, escalating diplomatic tensions between both countries.
The probe was formally launched on Wednesday during plenary, following the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance. The session was presided over by Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu.
House Mandates Immediate Intervention
Lawmakers unanimously mandated the House Committees on Defense and Foreign Affairs to immediately engage relevant authorities and provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the detention.
The motion was sponsored by retired Air Vice Marshal Rufus Ojuawo, who raised concerns over Nigeria’s sovereignty, the welfare of the detained personnel, and the broader implications for regional security.
Federal Government Confirms Detention
Contrary to earlier reports suggesting that the aircrew had been released, the Federal Government confirmed on Wednesday that the 11 Nigerian Air Force personnel remain in custody in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
The confirmation has intensified public concern and prompted renewed calls for swift diplomatic engagement.
NAF Denies Espionage Allegations
In a statement issued earlier today, the Nigerian Air Force dismissed what it described as “viral social media fabrications” alleging that the aircraft was on an espionage mission.
According to the NAF, the C-130 aircraft was on a routine maintenance flight to Portugal when it developed a technical fault, necessitating a precautionary landing in Burkina Faso.
The Air Force stressed that the mission posed no security threat and was conducted in line with international aviation protocols.
Rising Regional Tensions
The incident has drawn in wider regional politics, with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES)—a bloc comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—reportedly viewing the aircraft’s landing as an “unfriendly act” and a “violation of sovereignty.”
Analysts suggest the continued detention may be linked to heightened tensions following Nigeria’s recent diplomatic and security role in preventing a coup attempt in neighboring Benin.
National Security Concerns
Lawmakers warned that failure to resolve the matter promptly could have serious implications for Nigeria’s national security, military morale, and diplomatic standing within West Africa.
The House committees are expected to brief lawmakers in the coming days as diplomatic efforts intensify behind closed doors.
Sources: The Guardian Nigeria, Vanguard News, PRNigeria
Story updated: December 17, 2025
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