The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially accepted responsibility for the accidental airstrike that tragically claimed 37 lives in Rukubi Community, Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa State on January 23, 2023.
During a condolence visit to the Palace of the Emir of Lafia on Friday, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, expressed regret over the incident.
He clarified that the airstrike, conducted in response to criminal activities and terrorist attacks, was unintentional.
The operation was prompted by intelligence indicating the presence of terrorists on motorcycles and aimed to address security concerns, including the abduction of primary school pupils in the area.
Inadvertently, the airstrike resulted in the loss of innocent civilian lives.
Responding to public outcry and concern, the NAF initiated a detailed investigation, confirming the involvement of civilians in the incident.
Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the military’s discomfort when accused of harming civilians and assured the public of the NAF’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
The visit to Nasarawa State was intended to extend condolences to the affected families and the state government, aiming to bring closure to the regrettable accident.
Governor Abdullahi Sule commended the NAF’s gesture and acknowledged the role of the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies in maintaining peace in the state.
He pledged continued support for their operations.
The Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad (retd), expressed gratitude to the Federal Government and the Chief of the Air Staff for their condolences, highlighting the significance of the apology in the healing process.
He noted that the NAF’s acceptance of responsibility and apology was unprecedented and marked a new level of accountability in such incidents.
The Nigerian Air Force’s acknowledgment of the accidental airstrike and their commitment to preventing similar occurrences in the future reflects a dedication to upholding the safety and well-being of civilians during military operations.
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