The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, met with families and victims of the accidental air strikes that occurred on January 24, 2023 near Rukubi in Doma Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State.
During the meeting in Lafia on 26 January 2024, the CAS stated that after reviewing incident reports concerning the air strikes undertaken in January 2023 to pursue terrorists near Rukubi, it was determined that innocent civilians may have been erroneously killed or injured.
In a statement, Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar, expressed regret over the incident, clarifying that the strikes, which targeted suspected terrorists and cattle rustlers, were not deliberate but a response to the heightened level of insecurity in the area at the time.
He said that the primary responsibility of the NAF remains safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians and that the force would not deliberately engage in acts that put Nigerian lives at risk.
Abubakar told the families and victims that the interface reflects the NAF’s commitment to conflict resolution and reconciliation and is a step towards addressing grievances, fostering understanding, and rebuilding trust between the NAF and the civilian population.
Recall that NAF aircraft conducted airstrikes on 24 January 2023 after intelligence revealed the sighting of suspected terrorists on 10 motorcycles transiting through Utagudu, near Rukubi in Doma LGA.
The area was known for heightened insecurity due to killings, kidnappings, and terrorism.
“Within the period, six primary school pupils were also kidnapped in Doma LGA. Unfortunately, the strikes accidentally killed some innocent civilians at the location, which necessitated the visit of the CAS to Nasarawa State,” the statement read.
The Air Chief earlier met with Nasarawa State Governor Engineer Abdullahi Sule, soliciting support in interfacing with the representatives of the victims. He stated that this would assist in promoting accountability, transparency, and allow the NAF to learn valuable lessons to mitigate similar incidents in the future.
“Our efforts to mitigate civilian casualties and take responsibility in the event of accidental strikes reflect our values as a Service and are strategically imperative to our operations,” said the Air Chief.
In response, Governor Sule commended the CAS for revisiting the earlier report of the incident and for his efforts at making amends.
“This is the first time a military organization is owning up to mistakes committed over a year ago, and I must commend you immensely. The fact that you have come personally and want closure on this matter is the peak of professionalism worthy of emulation and commendation,” said Governor Sule.
The Emir of Lafia, His Royal Highness Justice Sidi Bage Muhammed, commented, “That you have come here to meet with us and accept responsibility for what happened a year ago is exemplary and something our leaders must imbibe. We have wholeheartedly accepted your apology.”
