Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed profound regret and extended heartfelt apologies to the families of civilians killed during a military airstrike in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The tragic incident occurred on December 25 during a counter-terrorism operation targeting the Lakurawa terrorist group.
The airstrike, intended to neutralize a logistics base of the terror group, inadvertently resulted in the deaths of 10 civilians in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities. Addressing the unfortunate development, Vice President Shettima described the incident as “one of the rare but unfortunate consequences of counter-terrorism operations.”
In a statement released on Saturday by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said, “I must say we are sorry and dismayed at the civilian casualties incurred and the excruciating pain that ensues in these extremely difficult times.”
The vice president conveyed his condolences to the government and people of Sokoto State, particularly the bereaved families, and acknowledged the immense pain caused by the loss of innocent lives.
“I would like to extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the Government and people of Sokoto State, particularly families of those who lost their lives in the coordinated joint operation by the air and land components of Operation Fansan Yamma to eliminate Lakurawa terrorist groups at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area,” the statement read.
Shettima also commended the efforts of Nigeria’s armed forces in combating terrorism, while admitting the challenges they face in distinguishing civilians from terrorists during high-stakes operations. He urged Nigerians to understand the complexities of military operations and continue supporting security personnel.
“On behalf of our gallant officers, I apologise for this great loss. I urge you to continue to give our brave officers the assistance they need in carrying out their operations to ensure a safer country for all of us,” he said.
Reiterating the federal government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism, Shettima assured Nigerians that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains resolute in restoring peace across the country. He emphasized the importance of public cooperation by providing timely intelligence to security agencies to enhance precision in counter-terrorism efforts.
“Let me assure you that the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is hell-bent on weeding out what is left of terror elements in the country and will stop at nothing in ensuring a peaceful Nigeria where farmers work freely in their farms and all Nigerians go about their businesses without fear of attacks,” he added.
The Sokoto airstrike highlights the delicate balance in counter-terrorism operations, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced intelligence and precision to safeguard civilian lives while neutralizing threats.
By Saifullahi Muhammad
