The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries following a military airstrike that accidentally hit civilians in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa villages, Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State. The incident has sparked calls for accountability and measures to prevent similar tragedies.
In a statement released by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP extended its condolences to the affected families and the people of Sokoto State. The party described the event as a grave tragedy and emphasized the need for urgent action to address the incident.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Hon. Ologunagba said, “After an analysis of the reports of the mistaken airstrike, the PDP demands an urgent, system-wide investigation into the tragic incident to further guarantee the protection and safety of civilians in the fight against terrorism in the country.”
The PDP pointed out that similar incidents occurred in Kaduna State in December 2023 and September 2024, underscoring a pattern of mistakes requiring immediate attention. The party urged the Federal Government to take proactive steps to avoid future civilian casualties.
Additionally, the PDP called for compensation for the families who lost loved ones and for medical support for the injured victims. Ologunagba stressed that this step was vital in helping the victims recover both emotionally and physically.
While reiterating its support for the military’s efforts against terrorism, the PDP called for increased professionalism to ensure civilian safety during operations. Meanwhile, the military has denied responsibility for the civilian deaths, attributing them to explosives allegedly owned by the terrorists.
