Gov expresses outrage over bombing of innocent civilians in Sokoto by fighter jet

Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu, has visited the communities affected by an airstrike in the state to assess the damage and express condolences to the victims’ families.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the attack in a statement released on Thursday via X.com.

The statement reported that more than 10 individuals had lost their lives due to a bomb dropped in two communities within Silami Local Government Area.

The bomb, launched by a fighter jet targeting terrorists in the region, mistakenly struck Gidan Bisa and Runtawa villages.

Governor Aliyu, accompanied by Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako and other officials, visited the affected areas to observe the aftermath and personally offer condolences to the bereaved families.

READ ALSO :Scores feared dead as fighter jet bombs Sokoto communities

In a separate post on X.com late Wednesday, Aliyu called the attack “heartbreaking” and an “avoidable loss of life.”

He stated, “This heartbreaking event, caused by an accidental misfire from the Nigerian Army, has claimed the lives of innocent citizens and left several others injured.”

“As your governor, I am deeply saddened by this avoidable loss of life. On behalf of the government and the people of Sokoto State, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. We also pray for the swift recovery of those injured in this unfortunate incident,” he added.

During his visit, Aliyu also pledged N20 million in support for the victims’ families, along with 100 bags of assorted food items to help with funeral expenses and medical care for the injured.

“The donation is intended to provide financial support for funeral arrangements and medical bills for those still recovering in hospitals due to their injuries,” Aliyu wrote.

He further assured the public of ongoing discussions with the Nigerian Army leadership to ensure a thorough investigation into the incident.

“The state government will take all necessary steps to support the affected families and collaborate with relevant authorities to prevent such incidents from happening again in the future,” he concluded.

Recall that a Nigerian Air Force airstrike, originally targeting Lakurawa terrorists, mistakenly struck two villages in Silami Local Government Area on Wednesday, disrupting Christmas celebrations and causing multiple casualties. The bombing also led to the loss of livestock and food supplies in the affected villages.