The minister described the incident as an operational error, adding that the government had begun through probe towards unravelling the situation surrounding the incident.
President Bola Tinubu has sent delegates to pay condolences to the Kaduna State Government over the killing of dozens civilians during a drone strike launched by the Nigerian Army on Sunday.
Recall that at least 34 residents were killed while over 66 residents were wounded by the aerial bombardment in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State for during a Mawlid Nabiy celebration.
In a press statement dated 5th of December, 2023 released by Brig Gen Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the military stated that President Tinubu’s delegation was led by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.
The minister described the incident as an operational error, adding that the government had begun through probe towards unravelling the situation surrounding the incident.
The statement read, “In response to the regrettable incident at Tudun Biri community in Kaduna state, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, has swiftly dispatched a high-level delegation to convey heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kaduna.
“Led by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, the delegation met with Deputy Governor, Hadiza Balarabe, members of Kaduna state security committee and religious leaders to express solidarity and empathy during this challenging time.
“Addressing the media at the Government House Kaduna, Matawalle emphasised the need for a thorough investigation to determine the facts surrounding the incident. He assured the public that the findings would be transparently communicated, reaffirming the federal government's commitment to preventing future occurrences. The Minister appealed for cooperation, calm, and continued support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“Matawalle extended prayers for the souls of the departed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. He urged religious leaders to enlighten their followers, emphasising that the incident was an operational error deeply regretted by the Armed Forces of Nigeria, which remains unwavering in its mandate to secure every part of the country.
“In response, Deputy Governor, Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the prompt delegation visit. She highlighted the state government's continuous engagement with the affected community and religious leaders to maintain peace and mitigate tensions.
“The delegation also visited the Kaduna Nursing Home to extend well-wishes to the wounded. Among the delegation were Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence; Gen Chris Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, and other distinguished members.”