The Federal Government on Wednesday apologized for the deaths of some 64 people who were allegedly killed in a Nigerian army airstrike on Sunday in the community of Mutumji, Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara state.
PUNCH reports that although some armed militants were killed, locals, including women and children, were also killed by the airstrike aimed at chasing down the terrorists who reportedly invaded the city.
The Nigerian Air Force responded to calls for help on Saturday and Sunday from locals after armed bandits attacked the communities of Malele, Ruwan Tofa and Yan-Awake in the area.
According to residents, the attack thwarted the attack on the three neighboring communities, forcing the terrorists to flee to the neighboring community of Mutumji.
Briefing reporters after the Federal Executive Council meeting this week, Information and Culture Minister Lai Mohammed described the incident as “regrettable.”
“Regarding the unfortunate collateral deaths in Zamfara state, the federal government is sorry. Fighting insurgency is a very difficult thing. And as much as the air force or military is careful, it does happen from time to time. That innocent people actually suffer too. we sorry
“But I think it’s the nature of fighting an insurgency, and the military is very, very careful, especially the Air Force and the military when trying to contain the insurgency so as not to allow innocent lives to be lost. The Air Force is sorry, we are sorry. But unfortunately, from time to time, it happens.”
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without the prior written permission of PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected]