Vice President Kashim Shettima has tendered an apology to the families of victims affected by the recent bombing in Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State.
By Emma Ogbuehi
Vice President Kashim Shettima has tendered an apology to the families of victims affected by the recent bombing in Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State.
About 10 civilians were killed in airstrike targeted at the Lakurawa terrorist group at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area, on December 25, 2024, when the military targeted a logistics base of the insurgents in the area. Many were reportedly injured.
The Nigerian Air Force spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, had insisted that the airstrike was carried out based on credible intelligence from multiple sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance, a claim residents of the locality disputed.
The federal government however said reports of civilian casualties would be thoroughly investigated.
READ ALSO:
Shettima regrets many Nigerians lack access to electricity, promises govt ‘ll remedy situation
In his reaction, the Vice President in a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, extended his sympathy to families of those mistakenly hit by the military onslaught on the terrorist group, noting that it was one of those rare sad moments when innocent civilians were caught in crossfire in the ongoing efforts to rid the country of all forms of terror.
He said, “I would like to extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the Government and people of Sokoto State, particularly families of those who lost their lives in the coordinated joint operation by the air and land components of Operation Fansan Yamma to eliminate Lakurawa terrorist groups at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area.
“I must say we are sorry and dismayed at the civilian casualties incurred and the excruciating pain that ensues in these extremely difficult times. I call for understanding, especially when it is considered that our gallant men of the Armed Forces were fighting and paying the supreme price to protect the lives of those caught in the crossfire.
“My thoughts and prayers particularly go out to the relatives of those who perished in the tragic event. May Almighty God ease your pain and grant you the courage and patience to bear the loss.”
Senator Shettima on behalf of the military expressed regret over the incident, just as he solicited more support for the troops, noting that with useful information, the officers would maintain accuracy and precision in fishing out the terrorists from among innocent villagers they are staking their lives to protect.
He said, “On behalf of our gallant officers, I apologise for this great loss. I urge you to continue to give our brave officers the assistance they need in carrying out their operations to ensure a safer country for all of us.
“Let me assure you that the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is hell-bent on weeding out what is left of terror elements in the country and will stop at nothing in ensuring a peaceful Nigeria where farmers work freely in their farms and all Nigerians go about their businesses and other activities without fear of attacks from agents of death.”
