Sokoto Air Strikes: We Are Sorry, Shettima Apologies To Victims’ Families

Sokoto airstrikes: We are sorry, Shettima apologies to victims’ families

Vice President Kashim Shettima has tendered an apology to the families of victims affected by the recent bombing in Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State.

The airstrikes, carried out on Wednesday, December 25, targeted a logistics base of the Lakurawa insurgent group in two communities within the area but tragically claimed the lives of ten civilians.

Three days later, Shettima expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of those inadvertently affected by the military operation against the terrorist group.

Describing the incident as a rare and tragic occurrence, he noted that such moments highlight the unfortunate reality of innocent civilians being caught in the crossfire during efforts to eradicate terrorism in the country.

The Vice President’s apology was contained in a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, on Saturday.

The statement read, “I must say we are sorry and dismayed at the civilian casualties incurred and the excruciating pain that ensues in these extremely difficult times.

“I would like to extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the Government and people of Sokoto State, particularly families of those who lost their lives in the coordinated joint operation by the air and land components of Operation Fansan Yamma to eliminate Lakurawa terrorist groups at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area.”

Shettima called for understanding and support for members of the armed forces, saying they pay the supreme price to protect the lives of those caught in the crossfire.

He expressed regret over the incident, just as he solicited more support for the troops.

The Vice President stated that with useful information, the officers will maintain accuracy and precision in fishing out the terrorists from among innocent villagers they are staking their lives to protect.

He assured the people of the state of the Federal Government’s support, vowing that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not rest on its oars until terror groups and other criminal elements are completely wiped out of the country.

“On behalf of our gallant officers, I apologize 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. We have all been impressed by the courage and dedication of our troops, and by the dignity and resilience which lies behind the determination to prevail against such monstrous evil.

“Security is not one man’s business. Together, we will surely make a difference as a people. I sincerely call for your support, especially from people in the flashpoints of the war against terror who have always helped the operations of our military.

“Let me assure you that the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is hell-bent on weeding out what is left of terror elements in the country and will stop at nothing in ensuring a peaceful Nigeria where farmers work freely in their farms and all Nigerians go about their businesses and other activities without fear of attacks from agents of death.”

Source:- Punchng

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