Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, affirmed that there is no religious or ethnic cleansing in the state following the unintentional bombing of Tudun Biri village in Igabi Local Government Area by the Nigerian Army. Sani made these remarks during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, responding five days after the tragic incident that resulted in the death of over 85 people and injuries to several others.
He emphasized, “Let me clarify that in Kaduna State, we don’t have any religious or ethnic differences. In the beginning, many people, particularly those involved in religious and ethnic narratives, might try to portray this issue as religious. As the governor of Kaduna State, we are working together as a team in religious harmony.”
Governor Sani mentioned that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) led a delegation to the Kaduna State Government House to express condolences to the state government and the Tudun Biri village in Igabi Local Government Area over the unfortunate incident. The tragic event has drawn condemnation from local and international watchdogs, prompting calls for investigations and a standardized review of procedural activities.
While the Nigerian Air Force quickly absolved itself of responsibility for the incident, the Nigerian Army claimed responsibility for the accidental bombing. During his visit, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, apologized to the community, vowing to prevent a recurrence of such an incident.
Governments at both the federal and Kaduna State levels have initiated a full investigation into the incident. This incident follows a similar fatal airstrike on Kwatiri, a Nasarawa village, which occurred months ago, resulting in the death of over 85 people and numerous injuries.
Vice President Kashim Shettima visited the state to offer condolences to the affected community. Shettima, accompanied by the governor and other high-ranking government officials, assured that the Federal Government is committed to holding anyone found culpable accountable. He emphasized that a thorough probe has been launched, with an investigation directed by the President, and a report is expected shortly.
Shettima pledged the federal government’s support for the incident’s victims, expressing sympathy for the bereaved families. He affirmed the commitment of the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, to eradicate terrorism and banditry in the Northern region and other parts of the country.
