Nigeria: Bola Tinubu orders an investigation into the drone strike causing the loss of 85 lives
Nigeria is reeling after a deadly drone strike in northern Kaduna at the weekend. At least 85 lives, including those of women and children, were tragically lost in the incident, revealing an alarming pattern of aerial attacks attributed to the Nigerian military. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu reacted with dismay to the attack, ordering a full investigation.
Lieutenant-General Taoreed Lagbaja, head of the Nigerian army, personally visited the village of Tundun Biri to apologise officially for the air strike.
During his visit to a hospital in Kaduna to meet the injured, he gave assurances that medical expenses would be covered.
This sad incident highlights an alarming pattern of deadly air attacks by the Nigerian army, adding to a series of attacks on civilians reported in a Reuters special report in June.
Kaduna, 163 km from the capital Abuja, is one of several north-western and north-central states facing kidnappings and killings by armed groups.
The security forces have resorted to air strikes to counter these threats.
The National Emergency Management Agency of Nigeria has officially confirmed 85 deaths and 66 injuries, although witnesses suggest an even higher toll.
Attending the Cop28 climate summit in Dubai, President Tinubu described the incident as «very unfortunate, worrying and painful».
His spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, described Sunday evening’s event as a «bombing incident».
In response to the tragedy, President Tinubu called for a thorough investigation, stressing the need to examine the incident diligently and appealing for calm in public opinion.
Kevin DAKO
