The forum also demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and equal compensation for the victims.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed outrage over the military airstrike on Silame Community in Sokoto State, which resulted in 10 deaths and several injuries.
The forum also demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and equal compensation for the victims.
In a statement issued on Monday in Kaduna State, ACF National Publicity Secretary Prof Tukur Muhammad-Baba, condemned the attack, which occurred on Christmas Day, calling it “one mistake too many.”
He added, “We are deeply troubled and saddened by the Silame incident, as one far too many in the country.”
Muhammad-Baba pointed out that the attack was not an isolated case, recalling previous similar incidents, including the bombing of the Tudun Biri community in Kaduna State and attacks in Adamawa and Nasarawa states.
“The memories of similar attacks remain fresh in memory,” he said.
The forum also expressed concern over the military’s response, particularly the statement by a spokesperson claiming the attack targeted a planned location.
The ACF deemed the response “insensitive” and called for a comprehensive investigation.
“The bland response of a spokesperson of the military insisting that the attack was on a planned target was most insensitive,” said the ACF spokesman.
He further noted that the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, had initially downplayed the Tudun Biri tragedy, only to later admit it was a mistake after internal investigations, questioning whether those responsible were adequately punished.
Despite the concerns, the ACF commended the Sokoto State government for its swift action in the wake of the attack, particularly Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s visit to the community, where he expressed condolences to the victims’ families and promised medical aid to the injured.
