Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has, on behalf of the military, apologized to Nigerians over the recent army airstrikes that killed several persons in Kaduna State.
The Defence Chief denied claims by the Arewa group, stating that the act was a deliberate attack due to ethnic differences. He clarified that the killings had nothing to do with ethnic cleansing and that anyone with such thoughts is not being truthful and sincere.
While promising that investigations would be carried out on the tragic incident, Musa maintained that the act was a mistake that is relatable, and the army would take measures to ensure that it is addressed.
“If you saw the footage, it was just the way the terrorists move and congregate. That’s why the pilot felt he had to engage. But then again, we are going to review it to ensure that we are more precise in the future,” he added.
Reacting to questions about military underfunding, the Chief of Defence Staff revealed that the Tinubu-led administration has shown real commitment, emphasizing the need for Nigeria to produce what it needs.
Musa explained that the Nigerian military purchases its items in dollars, and if converted, the amount released in the past for items like the super Tucanos was about six hundred million dollars out of one billion.
While calling on Nigerians to support the Nigerian military to combat insecurity, the Defence Chief stated that no country should allow terrorism to start; otherwise, it will be difficult to eradicate, as the centre of gravity for a terrorist lies not in the individual but in the ideology within their mind.
“We have Nigerians that are also doing so much to trade with them, give them fuel and food. If we all come together and stop this thing, they will not survive.
“It is a holistic thing and an all-government approach, not only for the armed forces,” he reiterated.
It is recalled that on the night of Sunday, December 3, 2023, a Nigerian army drone accidentally bombed civilians in Tudun Biri, Kaduna State, resulting in the death of at least 85 villagers and the hospitalization of about 66 others.
