Nigeria's President Demands Probe into Fatal Drone Attack on Civilians
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu demands a comprehensive inquiry following a devastating military drone strike in Kaduna state, resulting in the tragic loss of 85 innocent lives Urgent action required
Nigeria's President, Bola Tinubu, has called for a comprehensive investigation into a military drone attack that resulted in the death of at least 85 people, as reported by the state emergency agency in northern Kaduna state over the weekend. According to the governor, a religious leader, and witnesses who spoke to Reuters on Monday, the attack targeted insurgents and bandits but resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians.
The Kaduna State Emergency Management Agency confirmed on Tuesday that at least 85 people had died in the weekend attack, as reported by local authorities. The search for more victims is still ongoing.
Tinubu, currently at the Cop28 Climate Summit in Dubai, expressed his condolences regarding the "the bombing mishap" in a village at Tundun Biri, calling it "very unfortunate, disturbing, and painful," according to his spokesman Ajuri Ngelale's statement.
Nigerias new President Bola Tinubu has asked citizens to endure hardships from touted economic reforms despite proposed lavish spendings by his government.
Emmanuel Osodi/AP
Ngelale stated, "The President has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident and is urging the public to remain calm while the authorities thoroughly examine the situation."
The Nigerian Army has not issued a statement regarding the incident, but the Air Force has refuted any involvement in the mission that resulted in the Sunday attack.
Backed by the United States, Britain, and other non-Western allies, Nigeria's military has been waging a lengthy battle against Islamist insurgents in the northeast. In addition, they have been conducting lethal aerial attacks in other regions of the country for years.
Kaduna, located 163 km (101 miles) from the capital Abuja, has become a target for armed criminal gangs that terrorize the northwest and central regions of Nigeria. The army and air force have been deployed to address this growing threat, as these gangs pose a danger to the residents through shootings and mass kidnappings.
