Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed profound regret over the death of civilians during an airstrike aimed at dismantling the Lakurawa terrorist group in Sokoto State’s Silame Local Government Area.
The tragic incident, which occurred on December 25, 2024, claimed the lives of about 10 villagers in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities. The military operation was part of efforts to neutralize a logistics hub of the insurgent group, but the strike inadvertently resulted in civilian casualties, with several others sustaining injuries.
Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, confirmed that the operation was guided by credible intelligence and detailed aerial surveillance. He acknowledged the reports of civilian casualties and assured the public of a full investigation into the matter.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President extended his condolences to the bereaved families and all those affected. He described the incident as a deeply sorrowful moment for the nation and urged Nigerians to understand the complexities faced by military personnel in the fight against terror.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Sokoto State, especially the families of those who tragically lost their lives in the joint military operation under Operation Fansan Yamma. This is a painful moment, and we deeply regret the civilian losses that occurred in the quest to rid the region of terror elements,” Shettima said.
Acknowledging the anguish of the affected families, the Vice President assured them that their pain is shared. “We are truly sorry for this loss and the profound grief it has caused. May Almighty God grant the families strength and fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” he added.
He also called on the public to continue supporting the Armed Forces with information that could aid in identifying and isolating insurgents from innocent citizens. “We recognize the sacrifices of our brave soldiers who risk their lives daily to protect Nigerians. With better collaboration and accurate intelligence, we can minimize such tragic occurrences,” he said.
Shettima reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to a Nigeria free of terror. “This government remains resolute in its mission to eliminate the remnants of terror and create an environment where Nigerians can live and work in peace without fear of attack,” he assured.
In a separate engagement, Vice President Shettima led a high-profile delegation to Jigawa State to condole with Governor Umar Namadi over the loss of his mother, Hajiya Mariam Namadi, and eldest son, Abdulwahab Namadi, who passed away within 24 hours.
Speaking during the visit to Hadejia, Shettima reflected on the inevitability of death. “We are all travellers in this world, destined to return to Allah with our deeds as our ultimate baggage. Let us be guided by this reality,” he said.
The Vice President was joined by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, and other dignitaries to offer prayers and words of comfort to the bereaved family.
