VICE President Kashim Shettima has apologised to the families of the victims of the bombing in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
Ten people were killed in airstrikes on Wednesday, December 25 when the military targeted a logistics base of the Lakurawa insurgent group in two communities in the LGA.
Three days after, Shettima extended his heartfelt sympathy to families of those mistakenly hit by the military onslaught on the terrorist group.
He said it was one of those rare sad moments when innocent civilians are caught in crossfire in the ongoing efforts to rid the country of all forms of terror.
“I must say we are sorry and dismayed at the civilian casualties incurred and the excruciating pain that ensues in these extremely difficult times,” the Vice President was quoted in a statement by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.
“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.”