Sokoto state governor, Ahmed Aliyu, visited the two communities that were struck by a military airstrike on Wednesday morning.

This tragically resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people and left several others injured at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa in Silame Council area.

The attack, carried out by military fighter jets, occurred in the early hours of Wednesday and has since raised concerns among residents and state officials.

Undeterred by the difficult terrain of the affected areas, Governor Aliyu personally visited the communities to offer his condolences and to join the local residents for the funeral prayers for the deceased victims.
In a gesture of support, the governor also donated ₦20 million to assist the grieving families and help alleviate the financial burdens resulting from the tragedy.

The governor was accompanied on his visit by key figures including Senator Aliyu Wamakko, the All Progressives Congress , APC, leader in the state, and Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, the Minister of Labour and Employment. Together, they expressed their heartfelt sympathy to the affected communities, with Governor Aliyu calling the incident “tragic and unfortunate.”

Speaking to the press, the governor explained that the military jets were part of a broader mission targeting criminal armed groups that have been terrorizing parts of the state.

Unfortunately, he said, the airstrike mistakenly hit innocent civilians instead. “We consider this as an error,” he emphasized, noting that the military had previously carried out successful operations against criminal hideouts in the region.

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Governor Aliyu assured the people that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the mistake and to ensure such an incident does not occur again.

He stressed the importance of accountability and transparency in military operations, especially in sensitive areas like Sokoto State, where security challenges are significant. He also offered prayers for the deceased, asking Allah to forgive their souls and grant their families the strength to endure such an immense loss.

In addition to the governor’s personal donation, the Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa, made a separate announcement of a ₦20 million donation from the state government, along with 100 bags of assorted foodstuffs to support the families of the victims.

Furthermore, Sifawa stated that the state government would cover the medical expenses of those who were injured and hospitalized as a result of the bombing. The combined efforts of the state leadership demonstrate a commitment to assisting the victims of this unfortunate incident during their time of grief and hardship.

The visit and donations come at a time of heightened concern over security in Sokoto, where the military’s operations against bandits and armed groups have often intersected with civilian areas.

The governor’s actions reflect a deep concern for the welfare of his constituents and a desire to ensure that justice and transparency are upheld in the aftermath of such an incident.

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