Killing of Innocent Civilians: Northern Group Calls for Independent Investigation
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Northern Star Initiative, a youth advocacy group, has condemned the aerial bombing of Gidan Bida and Runtawa communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, which claimed the lives of at least ten innocent civilians and resulted in significant property damage.
In a statement issued in Kaduna, the Director-General of the movement, Dr. Abdullahi Idris, expressed deep concern over the incident.
He noted that while conflicting accounts have emerged from the villagers, state officials, and the military authorities, what remains indisputable is that the communities were bombed, resulting in the tragic loss of innocent lives.
Dr. Idris called on the Federal Government to establish an independent investigative committee to uncover the truth behind the incident.
He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to ensure justice for the victims and their families.
Recalling a similar incident last year in Kaduna State, where an aerial bombing killed civilians peacefully celebrating Eid-el-Maulud in Tudun Biri community, Dr. Idris warned that such “errors” are becoming alarmingly frequent and devastating in terms of human lives.
He urged the military to adopt more stringent measures to prevent further occurrences of such tragedies.
“An independent high-level investigation should be conducted without delay, and those found culpable must be held accountable. Additionally, adequate and commensurate compensation should be provided to the families who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate incident,” Dr. Idris stated.
He concluded by extending his compliments of the season to Nigerians, while reiterating the group’s commitment to advocating for justice and peace in the region.
