By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has deployed a high-level fact-finding team to Zamfara State following reports of an accidental bombing that resulted in civilian casualties during an operation conducted by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) at the weekend
The incident reportedly occurred in Kakindawa village, located in the Maradun Local Government Area, where 16 members of a vigilante group were allegedly killed. According to a local resident, the vigilantes were en route to assist neighboring Tungar Kara village, which had been attacked by bandits.
Both the Zamfara State government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state confirmed the incident and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
In a statement issued Monday, NAF spokesperson Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Olusola Akinboyewa announced that the fact-finding team, led by AVM Edward K. Gabkwet, Director of Coordination and Cooperation in the Civil-Military Relations Branch of NAF Headquarters, will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
“Concerned about the reported incidence of civilian casualties in the recent NAF airstrikes in Zamfara State, the CAS, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has dispatched a fact-finding team to Zamfara to fully investigate the incident and provide a detailed report for further action.” Akinboyewa said. “The team, led by AVM Edward Gabkwet, DCC in the Civil-Military Relations Branch of NAF Headquarters, will liaise and interface with state and local government officials as well as all other critical stakeholders, for a holistic assessment of the situation with a view to driving the appropriate response.”
Akinboyewa emphasized the Air Force’s commitment to professionalism, stating, “The CAS wishes to reiterate the NAF’s commitment to the highest level of professionalism and transparency in the conduct of operations, in line with appropriate global standards.”
“Our absolute value for the life and well-being of every Nigerian remains an integral part of the ethos of the service, as we sustain the effort to defeat all threats to our nation’s peace, security and prosperity. Mindful also of the need to maintain public trust, which is germane to our operational effectiveness, we enjoin all stakeholders to rest assured that the NAF will continue to refine its operational procedures to ensure mission accomplishment, while protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure.”
This incident follows a similar tragedy on Christmas Day in the Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where an airstrike aimed at neutralizing Lakurawa terrorists mistakenly hit Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities, killing at least 10 villagers and injuring others.
Nigerian Army Provides Free Medical Services to Over 5,000 Residents in Sokoto State
In a related development, the Nigerian Army offered free medical services to more than 5,000 residents of Gidan Gabas in the Dange/Shuni Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The initiative, part of activities marking this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day, reflects the Army’s commitment to its corporate social responsibility.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Major General Ibikunke Ajose, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 of Operation Hadarin Daji, underscored the importance of supporting underserved communities. Represented by Brigadier General Ogbonnaya Igwe, he assured residents of sufficient medical supplies and resources to meet their needs.
“The medical team has come prepared with sufficient drugs and resources to ensure that everyone who participates in this exercise receives adequate care. We chose rural areas like Gidan Gabas to ensure the services reach those who need them the most.” Ajose said.
