The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, expressed regret over the army air strike that resulted in civilian casualties in Tudun Biri, Kaduna, on December 3. He assured the public that anyone found culpable in the incident would face punishment.
Amidst criticism surrounding the air strike, during which approximately 85 civilians lost their lives and many others were hospitalized, President Bola Tinubu had pledged an independent investigation, vowing to take appropriate action against those responsible.
General Musa addressed the incident during an interaction with the media, stating, “The incident in Kaduna is highly regrettable, it should not have been.
Our mandate was to protect civilians, not to kill, maim, or destroy. At that particular time, we were in the heat of pursuing some bandits within that general area, and unfortunately, this happened.”
He acknowledged the President’s commitment to investigating the incident, ensuring transparency in the process. General Musa emphasized the military’s dedication to identifying casualties and arranging compensation, asserting that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are meant to serve and protect Nigerians.
As a disciplined organization, General Musa said that the military would not shield any officer found culpable in the incident. He stated, “If they are found guilty, they will definitely face punishment, and I can assure you that we are going to be transparent about it.”
Highlighting the commitment to discipline, he referred to past incidents in Maiduguri where personnel were jailed, emphasizing that the Armed Forces do not shield offenders.
General Musa urged Nigerians to await the outcome of the investigation to gain clarity on the circumstances surrounding the air strike. He affirmed that the investigation would bring to light crucial facts about the area.
The tragic incident in Tudun Biri unfolded as worshippers gathered to observe a religious holiday, with an army drone mistakenly identifying them as terrorists and bandits, leading to the fatal air strike.
