Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State on Tuesday, 14 January 2025, received the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fact-finding team led by the Director of Coordination and Cooperation of the Civil-Military Relations Branch in the NAF, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, at the Government House, Gusau.
The team, dispatched by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, is in Zamfara State to investigate the recent reported civilian casualties from an airstrike in Tungar Kara on Saturday January 11, 2025.
They are to conduct a thorough assessment of the incident, liaise with State and Local Government officials, and engage other critical stakeholders for a comprehensive evaluation of the situation.
Speaking during the meeting, AVM Gabkwet reiterated the NAF’s commitment to professionalism and transparency in its operations, stressing that respect for human life and adherence to international standards remain core values of the Service.
“Our mission is to ensure a transparent and objective investigation into the reported incident. We appreciate the cooperation of the Zamfara State Government and Governor Dauda Lawal’s support despite the short notice of our visit,” AVM Gabkwet said.
Governor Lawal reaffirmed his confidence in the NAF and acknowledged the complexities of military operations in the fight against banditry.
He emphasized that while collateral damage is regrettable, the reported incident was not a deliberate act.
“I fully support the Nigerian Air Force in its operations against banditry in Zamfara. The role of the military in restoring peace and security in the State is indispensable. Please convey my gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff for the NAF’s continued efforts to secure our region,” Governor Lawal said.
NAF Spokesperson, AVM Olusola AKinboyewa, who spoke on the meeting, said: “The team thereafter proceeded to Tungar Kara, site of the airstrikes, for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and environment.
“The vital data and information so gathered will be subjected to detailed analysis and provide key input towards enhancing the NAF’s capacity for protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in the course of our operations to eradicate banditry and terrorism in the North West.”
