In response to the tragic events that unfolded on Sunday night, the Kaduna State Government convened a high-level meeting to address the attack that resulted in the loss of several lives and injuries to numerous citizens. Presided over by the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, the meeting gathered key stakeholders including heads of security agencies, religious leaders, and traditional authorities.
During the session, Major VU Okoro, the General Officer Commanding One Division Nigerian Army, provided a detailed account of the circumstances leading to the unintended and regrettable attack. The Nigerian Army clarified that the incident occurred during a routine mission against terrorists, inadvertently affecting members of the local community.
At the conclusion of the closed-door meeting, Deputy Governor Balarabe extended the heartfelt condolences of the Government and People of Kaduna State to the bereaved families. She expressed deep sympathy and offered prayers for the repose of the victims’ souls.
As of the latest update, search-and-rescue operations are still underway. The government has mobilized resources to evacuate dozens of injured victims to Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital.
Among the dignitaries present at the meeting were Commissioner of Police, MY Garba, and Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Abdul Eneche. Religious representation included Professor Shafi’u Abdullahi, the Chairman of the Kaduna State Chapter of Jam’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), who led other religious leaders. Alhaji Aminu Idris, the District Head of Rigasa, in whose jurisdiction the incident occurred, was also present.
In a statement signed by Samuel Aruwan, the Overseeing Commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State, the government affirmed its commitment to thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure accountability. The authorities are actively coordinating with relevant agencies to provide assistance to the affected community and expedite the ongoing search-and-rescue efforts.
The government reassures the public that it is taking decisive steps to address the situation, offering support to the victims and their families, and will keep the public informed as further details emerge.
