Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has raised objections to the Defense Headquarters (DHQ) explanation attributing the air strike in the Tudun Birni community to terrorists embedding themselves with civilians.
The incident, resulting in over 120 casualties and numerous injuries in the Igabi Local Government Area, occurred on Sunday.
Contrary to the DHQ’s assertion, Governor Sani, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, criticized the statement as “careless” and emphasized the need for verification before accepting such claims.
He expressed concern, stating, “What happened in Tundi Buri is something that is unfortunate. But the fact that the chief of staff took responsibility is the reason why the community is calm.
“But to say that the terrorists are in the community is something that needs verification. I think that is a very careless statement when I heard it yesterday. If you visit the hospital and see what is happening, you would condemn statements like this.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima, during a condolence visit to the affected community on Thursday, announced a probe to prevent a recurrence of the incident. “It is already directed by Mr. President; an investigation is being conducted, and we expect a report to be submitted in the shortest possible time,” Shettima stated, also assuring support for the victims from the federal government.
Despite Governor Sani’s disagreement with the DHQ’s statement, he affirmed his ongoing support for the military in its efforts against insurgency and banditry in Kaduna State. He called on Chief of Army Staff General Lagbaja to retract the statement made by the DHQ, expressing serious concern about its validity.
“I think the first statement by the Chief of Army Staff, General Lagbaja, I think that is the one I have taken seriously.
“Because the second statement, the PRO of the general army, I’m trying to reach out to the Chief of Army Staff for him to see that they have to withdraw that statement.
Governor Sani emphasized the importance of empathy in addressing the aftermath of the incident, advocating for justice and cautioning against making excuses before completing the investigation.
“These are the statements that are responsible and show a lot of empathy. It’s a time to show empathy and not a time to make excuses because, for the families – we are trying to calm them down and make them understand that the government will fight for justice,” he said.
“But making excuses before the investigation is concluded, I think it’s unnecessary.”