The Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma has addressed recent reports concerning a military fighter jet allegedly bombing civilian structures in the Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
A statement by Lieutenant Conel ABUBAKAR ABDULLAHI
Coordinator Joint Media Coordination Centre,
Operation Fansan Yamma, notes that “the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken.”
It emphasized that the report of jet striking civilian targets
had ‘raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions. This rigorous process is particularly important when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organization, as it aims to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.”
The statement appeals, “given the serious nature of these operations, the public is urged to rely on confirmed information to prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic. There is a significant risk that terrorist groups may attempt to undermine military successes through media disinformation, necessitating caution concerning unverified claims, especially in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.
Sokoto Bombing: Northerner Groups Calls For Probe
A northern youth advocacy group, Northern Star Initiative, has decried the aerial bombing of Gidan Bida and Runtawa communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State that led to the death of at least 10 innocent civilians and destruction of property.
In a statement issued in Kaduna on Thursday, Director General of the Movement, Dr. Abdullahi Idris, noted that though there were conflicting accounts of the incident between the villagers and state officials.
He called on the federal government to set up an independent investigative committee to find out the truth of what truly transpired.
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Recalling a similar incident of the bombing of Tudun Biri community in Kaduna State while locals were celebrating Eid-el Maulud last year, Dr. Idris said “these errors are getting too many and too costly in terms of human lives,” calling on the military authorities to take urgent measures to stem the ugly tide.
“An independent high level investigation should be carried out immediately, and those found liable should be punished and adequate and commensurate compensation should be given to those that lost their love ones in the unfortunate incident,” Dr Idris added.
Sokoto Gov. broadcast
My dear people of Sokoto State,
It is with a heavy heart that I address you following the tragic incident in the communities of Gidan Bisa and Runtuwa in the Silame Local Government Area. This heartbreaking event, caused by an accidental misfire from the Nigerian Army, has claimed the lives of innocent citizens and left several others injured.
As your governor, I am deeply saddened by this avoidable loss of life. On behalf of the government and the people of Sokoto State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. We also pray for the swift recovery of those injured in this unfortunate incident.
I want to assure you that I am in direct communication with the leadership of the Nigerian Army to ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to this tragedy. The state government will do everything within its power to support the affected families and engage with the relevant authorities to prevent such occurrences in the future.
This is a time for us to stand united as a community. I urge all residents to remain calm and pray for peace in our state and nation. May the Almighty comfort the bereaved families and grant eternal rest to the departed souls.
I visited the affected areas to assess the situation firsthand and have directed a donation of N20 million along with 100 bags of assorted food items to the families of the deceased. This support is intended to alleviate their suffering and cover the medical bills of those hospitalized due to their injuries from the bombardment.
Together, we will overcome this difficult moment and work towards ensuring that such tragedies do not happen again. – AAS
