Sokoto Accidental Bombing; Military warns against harboring suspected Terrorists in houses
Sokoto Accidental Bombing; Military warns against harboring suspected Terrorists in houses
General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, has issued a stern warning to civilians harboring suspected criminals, urging them to cease such actions or face severe repercussions.
He made this statement during a visit to the troops of Operation FASAN YANMA at the 8 Division Headquarters in Sokoto.
The warning came in the wake of a tragic incident on Christmas day, when an airstrike, intended to target Lakurawa terrorists, inadvertently struck two villages—Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa—in the Silame Local Government Area.
The bombing, carried out by the Nigerian Air Force, resulted in the deaths of at least 10 villagers, with many others wounded.
In response to the incident, key political figures, including Sokoto State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and ex-Governor Aminu Tambuwal, have called for an impartial investigation into the bombing.
However, General Musa suggested that the villagers themselves might have been complicit by allegedly sheltering terrorists.
He emphasized that the military would not accept responsibility for any harm to communities that are known to be supporting or harboring militants.
Musa stated, “I urge everyone to avoid providing shelter to suspected criminals, whether they are affiliated with Lakurawa or bandits. Expose them and remove them from your surroundings.”
He further warned that anyone who continues to harbor criminals would make themselves a legitimate target of military action.
“We will not tolerate anyone disturbing the peace of this nation. We are actively dealing with these criminals, and we will continue our efforts,” he declared.
The CDS also clarified that the military conducts thorough investigations after every operation.
“We strive to minimize mistakes. In the event that errors occur, we will investigate thoroughly,” he assured.
He noted that the military has full documentation, including video footage, of the operation in question and pledged to look into any discrepancies.
Musa also called on the media to refrain from giving undue attention to bandits and other criminal groups, stressing that such publicity only aids their cause.
Additionally, he reiterated Nigeria’s stance against the establishment of foreign military bases on Nigerian soil and urged neighboring countries, including Niger, Chad, and Benin, to collaborate with Nigeria in combating terrorism and preserving regional peace.
