A resident of Tudun Biri in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Idris Dahiru, has revealed the heartbreaking toll on his family, with 34 members killed during a Nigerian Army aerial bombardment on Sunday evening.
The incident occurred during a gathering commemorating Maulud, where over 85 villagers lost their lives due to the drone strike, with the army expressing regret and clarifying that the operation was targeted at terrorists.
Dahiru recounted the horrifying experience to BBC Hausa, stating, “Our annual Maulud celebration was shattered by unexpected airstrikes. The first bomb exploded without warning, killing innocent people, including women and children; some victims were torn apart by the blast.” As they rushed to aid the injured, a second bomb struck upon the return of the jet, causing additional casualties, including those who had come to provide assistance.
“My family alone has lost 34 members in this tragedy. We have 66 loved ones receiving medical care at Barau Dikko hospital,” Dahiru shared, underscoring the immense impact on his community.
In response to the tragedy, President Bola Tinubu expressed profound sadness over the incident. In a statement released on Tuesday by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu described the incident as “very unfortunate, disturbing, and painful.” The president swiftly directed a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the incident, urging calm as authorities diligently look into the sad occurrence.
President Tinubu extended his sympathies to the families of the victims, the people, and the government of Kaduna State, acknowledging the gravity of the loss in the bombing mishap. The incident has prompted a call for a transparent inquiry to unravel the circumstances surrounding the aerial bombardment and provide a basis for addressing the tragic consequences.
