Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar says the country’s miscalculated air strikes are becoming a source of concern.
On Sunday, an air strike was launched on the Tudun Birni community in Kaduna state‘s Igabi LGA, killing many residents and injuring many more.
The villagers were reportedly commemorating the birth of Prophet Mohammed when a bomb was dropped, killing many.
According to some reports, the Nigerian Air Force was responsible for the air strike, but NAF spokesperson Edward Gabkwet said the reports were false.
However, following an emergency security meeting on Monday, the Kaduna government stated that the air strike was the responsibility of the army.
The incident occurred inadvertently during a routine army mission against terrorists, according to Samuel Aruwan, overseeing commissioner, ministry of internal security and home affairs.
Atiku expressed sadness over the deaths of the victims in a post on X about the incident.
He stated that the country must develop counterinsurgency strategies that protect civilians.
He also requested that the federal government conduct a thorough investigation into the incident in order to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Atiku said:
“I am grieved by the news of the drone airstrike that killed dozens of people and left scores of others with various degrees of injury in the Tudun Biri community in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State”.
“Ironically, the victims of this unfortunate incident were celebrating the Maulud anniversary.
“The incidence of miscalculated air strikes is assuming a worrisome dimension in the country.
“We need to develop counterinsurgency strategies that will insulate the civilian population from tragic incidents of this nature.
“I call on the authorities to launch a thorough investigation into this tragedy to avert future occurrences.
“Meanwhile, no resource should be spared in medical attention to the injured and assistance to the families of the dead. I pray that the Almighty Allah comforts the bereaved families and grants the dead eternal peace.”