PDP condemns Sokoto airstrike, demands investigation
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed its condolences to the people of Sokoto State following the tragic deaths and injuries caused by an accidental airstrike, allegedly conducted by the military.
The attack, which occurred in the villages of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa in Silame Local Government Area, resulted in the deaths of several civilians and livestock and caused extensive damage to homes and food silos.
Reports suggest that on December 25, a fighter jet targeting suspected Lakurawa terrorists mistakenly dropped bombs on residential areas, leading to significant casualties and destruction.
While the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has vowed to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, its spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, defended the airstrike, asserting that the strikes were based on reliable intelligence from multiple sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance.
In a statement released on Sunday, PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba called for an immediate, transparent, and thorough inquiry into the airstrike to prevent future occurrences and to enhance civilian safety during counter-terrorism operations.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expresses its condolences to the people of Sokoto State over the tragic loss of lives and injuries caused by the accidental airstrike during a military operation targeting terrorists in the Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa villages of Silame Local Government Area,” the statement read.
“Following an analysis of the reports surrounding the mistaken airstrike, the PDP demands an urgent, system-wide investigation into the incident in order to guarantee the protection and safety of civilians in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the country.”
Ologunagba recalled similar tragic incidents in Kaduna State in December 2023 and September 2024, urging authorities to implement measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The PDP also extended its sympathies to the victims’ families, calling on the Federal Government to compensate the bereaved and ensure that the injured receive adequate medical care for a swift recovery.
“The PDP condoles with the families of the victims of this unfortunate incident and urges the Federal Government to take the necessary steps to compensate the families of the deceased, as well as to provide adequate medical attention for the speedy recovery of those injured.”
The opposition party further stressed the importance of greater professionalism in military operations, acknowledging the military’s dedication to protecting national security, while encouraging them to continue their patriotic efforts in combating terrorism across the country.
