According to a statement from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Thursday, over 10 people lost their lives when a fighter jet’s bomb, intended to target terrorists in the area, mistakenly struck the Gidan Bisa and Runtawa communities.
Governor Aliyu, accompanied by Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako and other stakeholders, toured the affected areas and expressed deep sorrow over the incident. In a statement shared on X.com, Aliyu described the tragedy as “heartbreaking” and emphasized that the loss of innocent lives was “avoidable.”
“This heartbreaking event, caused by an accidental misfire from the Nigerian Army, has claimed the lives of innocent citizens and left several others injured,” Aliyu said. “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.”
During his visit, Aliyu announced a relief package of ₦20 million and 100 bags of assorted food items to assist the families of the deceased and cover funeral and medical expenses 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,” he stated.
The governor assured the public of his commitment to working with the Nigerian Army leadership to investigate the circumstances that led to the tragedy. He also pledged to take necessary measures to support affected families and prevent such incidents in the future.
The airstrike, initially aimed at Lakurawa terrorists in the region, has drawn widespread condemnation, sparking calls for improved measures to safeguard civilian lives during military operations.
