The Nigerian Senate has announced a donation of N109m ($272,500) to the victims of the accidental bombing in Tudun Biri village, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, announced on Sunday when he led a delegation of the Senate on a sympathy visit to the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, Kaduna.
The PUNCH reports that the accidental airstrike by the Nigerian Army killed no fewer than 100 villagers and injured scores on November 3.
A Gesture of Solidarity
Jibrin, who spoke on behalf of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said the Senate was greatly disturbed by the incident and the 109 senators had decided to donate their December salaries, amounting to N109m, to the victims of the incident.
He said the money would be sent to the state governor for onward delivery to the victims.
He said, “We are here to represent the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and indeed, other senators of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to sympathize with you for the lost lives and those who sustained injuries in respect of the unfortunate incident that happened at Tundun Biri in the Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna some few days ago.
“We are all worried. We are all disturbed but the only thing we can say now is for the Almighty Allah to grant those who lost their lives rest and those who sustained injuries, for Allah to give them a quick recovery.
“We will partner with you. We will do all within our power to bring succor to those that were affected by this unfortunate incident.”
A Call for Justice
The governor, in his response, thanked the senators for their gesture and urged them to collaborate with him in advocating for justice for the bombing victims.
He said the incident was a grave violation of human rights and a threat to national security. He stressed the necessity for a thorough investigation and punishment for those responsible for the bombings.
He also appealed to the senators to support the call for the creation of state police, saying it would equip security agencies with precise intelligence to avert similar incidents in the future.
“We also demand justice for our people. We cannot allow this kind of tragedy to go unpunished. We need to know who ordered the air strike, who executed it, and why they did it.
“We also need to strengthen our security architecture by allowing states to have their police. This will enable us to have more effective and efficient security operations in our state and across the country.”
A Hope for the Future
The governor also expressed his optimism that the state would overcome its security challenges and achieve peace and development. He said his administration was committed to addressing the root causes of violence and providing opportunities for the youth.
He said, “We are not deterred by the enemies of peace. We are determined to make Kaduna a safe and prosperous state for all. “We believe that with the support of the federal government, the National Assembly, and the people of goodwill, we will overcome our challenges and realize our dreams.”
The Senate delegation included the Senate Majority Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Chief Whip, Senator Ali Ndume, Senate Minority Leader, and Senator Abba Morro, among others.
