ACF Condemns Military’s Justification of Sokoto Airstrike, Demands Accountability and Compensation for Victims

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has strongly condemned the military’s airstrike on the Silame community in Sokoto State, which tragically resulted in the loss of 10 lives and left many others injured. The incident, which occurred on Christmas Day, has been labeled by the ACF as “one mistake too many,” and they have voiced concerns over the military’s attempt to justify the bombing.

In a statement issued on Monday in Kaduna, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, expressed deep distress over the attack, describing it as part of a troubling pattern of military missteps. He pointed to similar incidents in Tudun Biri, Kaduna State, and other regions like Adamawa and Nasarawa, which had left communities devastated and families mourning.

While the ACF commended the quick response of the Sokoto State Government, particularly Governor Alhaji Ahmed Aliyu’s visit to the affected community, they criticized the military’s statement claiming the airstrike had targeted a planned objective. The ACF found the military’s explanation insensitive and urged the Federal Government and Military High Command to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. They also demanded that the results be made public to ensure transparency.

Further emphasizing accountability, the ACF called for appropriate compensation for the victims’ families and those injured, aligned with Islamic legal principles. They appealed to humanitarian organizations, affluent individuals, and the general public to provide necessary relief to the Silame community, particularly in the wake of such devastating loss.

The ACF also raised concerns about corruption in relief efforts, urging that any attempts to divert aid for personal gain be actively prevented. They stressed the importance of preventing future incidents like this and called for concrete actions from both the government and military to hold those responsible accountable.

As the community continues to grieve, the ACF’s call for justice and restitution highlights the need for a more accountable and transparent military, as well as greater sensitivity to the human cost of such tragic events.