INSTANT NEWS

In the aftermath of a devastating military error bombing that claimed over 100 lives in Tudun Biri, Kaduna, grieving survivors, relatives, and local residents sought solace on Christmas day within the confines of a church.

Bringing together both Muslims and Christians from Tudun Biri in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, the community observed Christmas on Monday with a joint thanksgiving church service.

The tragic incident occurred on December 5 when villagers were celebrating a Muslim festival, and a combat drone operated by the Nigerian Army mistakenly dropped a bomb. In response, the Defence Headquarters initiated an investigation into the accidental bombing.

Despite the heart-wrenching loss, on Christmas day, both Christian and Muslim residents of Tudun Biri came together in a church service to express gratitude for being alive to witness the holiday. The unity demonstrated in their joint participation highlighted the resilience of the community in the face of tragedy.

Representing Governor Uba Sani at the service, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, conveyed the government's sympathy and support to the people of Tudun Biri during this challenging time. The Christmas service served as a poignant moment for reflection and communal strength in the midst of adversity.

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.