Saraki who lamented the crash described late Airforce pilot, Baba Bello Ari, as a hero. Senate President Bukola Saraki has commiserated with the Nigerian Airforce and the family of Squadron Leader Baba Bello Ari, the pilot who lost his life during a crash in Abuja on Friday, September 28, 2018. In a statement by his spokesman, Yusuph Olaniyonu, Saraki described the Ari and his colleagues who partook in the flying rehearsal ahead of the nation’s 58th Independence anniversary on Monday as “true heroes dedicated to their national calling.”He lamented the crash incident and called for special recognition for all the officers – both dead and alive – who partook in the unfortunate national assignment. “I am saddened over the tragic crash of two Nigerian Air Force fighter jets in Abuja that led to the loss of an officer and injuries on others,” Saraki said.ALSO READ: 2 aircrafts crash in Abuja during rehearsal for 58th Independence Day celebrations“The affected officers are true heroes among countless other military personnel who continue to put their lives on the line to defend and make the country proud.“Nigeria has lost a truly dedicated and patriotic Officer. The departed officer and his colleagues who survived the unfortunate crash deserve special recognition and place in annals of the nations’s military history,” he stated.He, however, lauded the Airforce and other security agencies for the prompt and successful rescue mission which has helped to preserve the lives of other personnel on the rehearsal mission.