The Nigerian Air Force has provided financial assistance and relief materials to victims of the accidental airstrike that occurred in Sokoto State in 2024, in a move aimed at easing the hardship faced by affected communities.
The incident happened on 25 December 2024 during a joint operation under Operation FANSAN YAMMA against Lakurawa terrorist hideouts in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities of Silame Local Government Area. About 13 people were mistakenly killed, while eight others sustained injuries.
While presenting the support, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, represented by the Chief of Civil–Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, handed over the assistance to Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, and the Chairman of Silame Local Government Area, Alhaji Muhammad Gittarana.
Air Marshal Aneke described the incident as regrettable and expressed sympathy to the bereaved families and the state government. He noted that Nigerian Air Force teams had earlier visited Sokoto State for engagement and fact-finding following the incident.
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He stated that the Air Force had accepted full responsibility for compensating losses, including damaged livestock and farmlands, and for providing other forms of support to alleviate the impact of the unfortunate occurrence.
“The incident was not deliberate. It was a mistake that occurred during an operation aimed at criminal elements in the area,” he said.
The Air Force chief reaffirmed the NAF’s resolve to continue operations against terrorists, bandits and kidnappers, while calling on communities to cooperate with the military to ensure smooth operations. He added that all NAF missions are conducted in line with strict rules of engagement and civilian harm mitigation standards.
Air Marshal Aneke also prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls and commended Governor Aliyu for facilitating dialogue between the Air Force and affected families. He assured residents of continued collaboration with the state government to maintain peace and security in the region.
In his response, Governor Aliyu disclosed that the Sokoto State Government had earlier provided N20 million in support, alongside medical care and logistics, to the victims immediately after the incident. He announced an additional N35 million donation to the injured persons and families of those who lost their lives.
The governor praised the Nigerian Air Force for its gesture, describing it as a demonstration of empathy and responsibility. He noted that the airstrike, though deeply unfortunate, occurred in the course of efforts to combat criminal activities.
Governor Aliyu reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional duties to ensure lasting peace and security in the state.
The event concluded with special prayers offered by Islamic clerics for the repose of the victims’ souls and for peace, security and stability in the country.
