Idris Dahiru, a resident of Tudun Biri in Kaduna State’s Igabi Local Government Area, has revealed the heart-wrenching toll of losing 34 members of his family in the accidental aerial bombing carried out by the Nigerian Army on Sunday evening.
The devastating incident resulted in the loss of at least 85 villagers’ lives, the Punch reports.
The affected communities were reportedly observing Maulud, an Islamic event when the military’s bombs fell, drawing widespread condemnation both locally and internationally.
To address the escalating tensions, Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe met with Islamic clerics, while Governor Uba Sani mandated a thorough investigation into the incident to prevent future tragedies.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Dahiru recounted how the airstrikes disrupted their celebration, leading to devastating casualties.
“Our annual Maulud celebration was shattered by unexpected airstrikes. The first bomb exploded without warning, killing innocent people, including women and children, some victims were torn apart by the blast.”
He continued, “As we rushed to aid the injured, the jet returned, unleashing a second bomb, this time, many of those who had come to help were among the casualties.
“My family alone has lost 34 members in this tragedy. We have 66 loved ones receiving medical care at Barau Dikko Hospital,” Dahiru lamented.
Meanwhile, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, extended apologies to the victims’ relatives, describing the incident as “very disheartening.”
He ordered an immediate investigation, emphasizing the need to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
