Vice President Kashim Shettima has extended condolences to the government and people of Sokoto State over those who lost their lives in the coordinated joint operation against the Lakurawa terrorist group in their hideouts at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame local government area of the state.
About 10 villagers were said to have lost their lives on December 25 when the military targeted a logistics base of the Lakurawa insurgent group in the Silame area of Sokoto State, leaving many others injured.
The vice president in a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha extended sympathies to families of the victims, noting that it was one of those rare sad moments when innocent civilians were caught in crossfire in the ongoing efforts to rid the country of all forms of terror.
He said, “I would like to extend my deep sympathies and condolences to the Government and people of Sokoto State, particularly families of those who lost their lives in the coordinated joint operation by the air and land components of Operation Fansan Yamma to eliminate Lakurawa terrorist groups at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area.
“I must say we are sorry and dismayed at the civilian casualties incurred and the excruciating pain that ensues in these extremely difficult times. I call for understanding, especially when it is considered that our gallant men of the Armed Forces were fighting and paying the supreme price to protect the lives of those caught in the crossfire.
“My thoughts and prayers particularly go out to the relatives of those who perished in the tragic event. May Almighty God ease your pain and grant you the courage and patience to bear the loss.”
Senator Shettima on behalf of the military expressed regret over the incident, just as he solicited more support for the troops, noting that with useful information, the officers would maintain accuracy and precision in fishing out the terrorists from among innocent villagers they are staking their lives to protect.
He assured the people of the state of the federal government’s support, vowing that the administration of President Bola Tinubu would not rest on its oars until terror groups and other criminal elements were completely wiped out of the country.