Vice President of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, has expressed deep sympathy to the government and people of Sokoto State over the tragic loss of about 10 civilians during a military airstrike targeting the Lakurawa terrorist group in Silame Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on December 25, 2024, when a military operation aimed at dismantling a Lakurawa logistics base inadvertently led to civilian casualties in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities. Several others sustained injuries in the attack.
The Nigerian Air Force spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, stated that the airstrike was conducted based on credible intelligence and thorough aerial surveillance. However, he assured that reports of civilian deaths would be investigated.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, Vice President Shettima offered condolences to the victims’ families, describing the incident as a rare but painful consequence of the ongoing fight against terrorism.
“My thoughts and prayers particularly go out to the relatives of those who perished in the tragic event. May Almighty God ease your pain and grant you the courage and patience to bear the loss,” Shettima stated.
He apologised on behalf of the military, urging Nigerians to support the Armed Forces in their mission to protect lives and defeat terror.
“On behalf of our gallant officers, I apologise for this great loss. I urge you to continue to give our brave officers the assistance they need in carrying out their operations to ensure a safer country for all of us,” he said.
Separately, Vice President Shettima led a delegation to Jigawa State to condole with Governor Umar Namadi, who lost his mother, Hajiya Mariam Namadi, and his eldest son, Abdulwahab Namadi, within 24 hours.
