By Emmanuel Ogbodo
Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has strongly condemned a recent airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), in Sokoto State, which claimed at least 10 civilian lives and left many others injured.
The strike, aimed at Lakurawa terrorists, mistakenly hit the Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area.
Describing the incident as “devastating, outrageous, and condemnable” on his X account Thursday, Atiku said it reflected a failure and a gross violation of humanity.
“The airstrike that claimed the lives of innocent civilians in peaceful communities of Sokoto State is an outrage that must be condemned in the strongest terms,” Atiku stated.
He cited a similar incident in December 2023, when a strike near Kaduna killed dozens at a religious gathering, questioning the government’s ability to prevent such tragedies.
“While targeting terrorists is legitimate, these operations must be executed with precision and irrefutable intelligence.
“The indiscriminate killing of innocent citizens is unjustifiable and a profound failure,” he added.
Atiku called on the Federal Government to prevent further civilian casualties and ensure accountability in military operations, warning that such incidents sow division and anger.
He extended his condolences to the affected families and communities, saying, “To the grieving families and the people of Sokoto, my heart goes out to you. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”
