May 2, (THEWILL)- Two officers involved in the air strike erroneously carried out in the Tudun Biri Community in Kaduna State are “to face a court martial for acts of omission or commission with respect to the incident”, the Defence Headquarters said on Thursday.
THEWILL had reported that at least 80 villagers died, and over 50 others suffered different injuries following an accidental air raid on Tundun Biri village in the Igabi Council Area of Kaduna State during Maulud celebration on December 3, 2023, at about 9pm.
President Bola Tinubu had on December 5, 2023, ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.
While the Nigerian Air Force denied reports that its fighter jet carried out the accidental bombing, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Maj. Gen. VU Okoro, admitted that the Nigerian Army was on a routine mission against terrorists when the incident happened.
Speaking on Thursday, Director, Defence Media Operation, Major General Edward Buba, said the decision to court martial the officers followed the conclusion of investigations by the board of inquiry into the incident.
General Buba noted that the military conducted a painstaking investigation into the incident and has initiated disciplinary action against those culpable.
“Accordingly, the affected personnel are to face a court martial for acts of omission or commission with respect to the incident.
“I’m, however, constrained to speak much about the incident as it would be adjudged prejudicial being a case before a court martial. However, it must be made clear that the incident was a mistake, as the victims of the strike were mistaken for terrorists.
“It is hoped that there would be no repeat of strikes on non-combatants in ongoing operations. The military will take extra precautions in the future to ensure that non-combatants are safe.
“Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, officers and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) console with the families and loved ones of all those killed by the sad air strike,” he said.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
