The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has issued a stern warning to civilians harboring suspected criminals, urging them to desist from such actions or face the consequences. His statement comes in the wake of the tragic accidental bombing of civilian communities in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, which killed at least 10 people and left several others injured.
Speaking during his visit to troops of Operation FASAN YANMA at the 8 Division Headquarters in Sokoto, General Musa addressed the incident in which a Nigerian Air Force airstrike, intended to neutralize Lakurawa terrorists, mistakenly struck Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in the Silame Local Government Area. The attack has sparked calls for an impartial investigation from various stakeholders, including Sokoto State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and ex-Governor Aminu Tambuwal.
While acknowledging the tragic loss of life, General Musa suggested that the villagers might have been complicit by harboring criminals, warning that anyone aiding militants would make themselves “legitimate targets.” He emphasized that the military would not tolerate any support for criminals disrupting the peace in the country. “We will not take it lightly with any criminals disturbing the peace of the nation,” he stated. Musa further added that once civilians harbor such elements, they become targets, stressing that the military would continue its operations to eliminate criminal elements in the region.
He also addressed the airstrike itself, stating that the military conducted extensive follow-up and investigations. “We have the video of everything that happened, and we are going to investigate any mistakes that occurred,” he confirmed.
General Musa urged the media to avoid giving excessive publicity to bandits and other criminal groups, stressing that Nigeria would not allow foreign military bases on its soil. He also called for greater cooperation from neighboring countries like Niger, Chad, and Benin to tackle shared security threats.
In his remarks to the troops, the CDS expressed gratitude for their dedication and sacrifices in ensuring Nigeria’s security, particularly in the face of challenges posed by terrorist groups. He lauded the success of recent operations aimed at eliminating Lakurawa terrorists in Sokoto and Kebbi States, stressing that the military would continue its commitment to peace and security throughout the region.
Musa also expressed optimism about the coming year, urging troops to gear up for further successes in 2025, particularly in the ongoing Operation FASAN YANMA. He assured the troops of continued support and resources to help them carry out their duties effectively.
Meanwhile, Governor Ahmed Aliyu visited the affected communities to assess the damage and offer condolences. He announced a donation of N20 million and 100 bags of assorted food items for the victims’ families. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the casualties, revealing that over 10 people were killed due to the misfire.
In response to the incident, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the airstrike, calling it an “outrage” and describing the indiscriminate killing of innocent citizens as a gross violation of humanity. He emphasized the need for precision in military operations to prevent such tragic mistakes.
Similarly, former Governor Aminu Tambuwal expressed shock at the loss of innocent lives and called for an impartial investigation into the airstrike. He acknowledged the importance of combating terrorism but emphasized the need for careful, precise, and accountable military actions. He also extended his condolences to the families of the victims and pledged solidarity with the people of Silame.
The tragedy has prompted widespread calls for an inquiry to ensure accountability and to prevent similar incidents in the future. Stakeholders continue to stress the importance of prioritizing civilian safety in military operations and providing support for the affected communities.
