The military has issued an apology, stating that terrorists often masquerade as civilians to evade attacks.

 

In response to the recent miscalculated airstrike in Ligarma village of Kaduna State, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) expressed regret for the unintended harm caused to innocent civilians. Major General Edward Buba, the director of defence information, acknowledged the unfortunate incident and clarified that terrorists often adopt the strategy of blending in with rural communities to evade military attacks, disguising themselves as civilians in the process.

Major General Buba explained that the military observed a gathering of terrorists in Ligarma, a known terrorist-infested area of Kaduna State, through aerial surveillance. The terrorists' movement posed a threat to key infrastructure, prompting the military to neutralize the threat. Unfortunately, collateral damages occurred during the operation.

The director emphasized that terrorists deliberately embed themselves within civilian populations, making it challenging for the military to distinguish between civilians and combatants. Despite such challenges, the Nigerian military is committed to minimizing civilian casualties and follows international law in its operations.

To further address the situation, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, visited and commiserated with the victims in the Tudun Biri community. The COAS tendered an unreserved apology for the accidental strike and donated N10 million to support the over 50 injured survivors. During the visit, the COAS explained that the strike was carried out by Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) targeting suspected bandits in the Riyawa and Ruma vicinity. He expressed the army's commitment to conducting a thorough inquiry to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring the well-being of affected communities.