Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, arrived in Kaduna State today on an official visit following the recent accidental bombing at Tudun Biri, a locality situated approximately 56 kilometers from the state capital. The incident occurred last weekend during a religious gathering when an Army drone mistakenly targeted civilians.
The chopper conveying Vice President Shettima touched down at the Nigerian Airforce base in Kaduna at 11:25 GMT. From there, he proceeded to the Dikko Barau Teaching Hospital to visit survivors of the tragic incident who are currently undergoing treatment. Over sixty patients are receiving medical attention at the hospital.
Visibly moved by the sight of those affected, Vice President Shettima assured them of the government’s concern for their health and well-being. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had directed the Vice President to undertake this visit to extend condolences to the government and people of Kaduna State.
Accompanying Vice President Shettima on the visit were prominent figures, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Abbas Tajudeen Abbas, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Kaduna State Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe; the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje; and the Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru, among others.
The visit follows a similar one by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Toureed Lagbaja, who assessed the extent of damage on Tuesday and commiserated with the affected community. President Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive probe into the incident to determine its cause and prevent future occurrences.
While in Kaduna, Vice President Shettima is scheduled to meet with religious and community leaders to address concerns and calm already frayed nerves in the aftermath of the tragic event.
Governor Uba Sani, addressing the survivors of the bomb attack, announced that the Kaduna State Government would cover all medical expenses and ensure the victims are supported in their recovery process.