From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Nigerian Air Force has taken responsibility for an airstrike conducted in Nasarawa State in January 2023, which resulted in civilian casualties.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, expressed remorse during a visit to Governor Abdullahi Sule in Lafia, on Friday.
While addressing the pressing need for reconciliation and accountability in the aftermath of the unfortunate incident, he commended the governor’s leadership acumen.
“We extend our condolences to the families affected by the accidental airstrike in Rukubi.
“Our foremost priority is to mitigate the impact of this tragedy and ensure that justice is served to those who lost their loved ones," Abubakar said.
According to him, the airstrike conducted following intelligence reports of suspected terrorist activities in the Agudu area near Rukubi in Doma Local Government Area, underscores the complexities of combating insurgency while minimising civilian harm.
“The heightened insecurity in the region, marked by kidnappings and terrorism orchestrated by extremist groups, compelled the Nigerian Air Force to undertake surveillance operations in collaboration with the Operation Whirlstroke joint task force, responsible for overseeing security in the North Central region,” he said.
However, the Air force chief said the strike tragically claimed the lives of innocent civilians, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for accountability.
Governor Sule expressed profound gratitude to the Chief of Air Staff, during the visit, acknowledging the significance of the occasion, particularly as it marked one year since the tragic airstrike incident.
The governor recounted the poignant encounter with a Fulani elder, who lost everything in the airstrike, offering solace and finding resilience in the face of adversity.