TheCable

Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff (CDS), says the accidental air strike by the military that killed several residents at Tudun Biri village in Igabi LGA of Kaduna, is regrettable.

Musa spoke on Wednesday when he appeared before the house of representatives committee on defence.

On December 3, the military air strike targeted at terrorists killed many locals celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammad.

The death toll from miscalculated air strike has reportedly surpassed 100.

Musa said the military is working to ensure that accidental air strikes targeting civilians do not reoccur.

The defence chief said the military’s duty is to protect Nigerians and not kill them.

“I want to mention the sad incident in Kaduna that occurred. It shouldn’t have. It was a mistake, it was never deliberate,” he said.

“We are meant to protect our citizens not to kill them.

“That is highly regrettable. We assure you that we will continue to work until everybody is free and there is no more threat to any life and property in Nigeria.

“But we are taking steps to ensure that we address it and so that it doesn’t reoccur.”

Musa said the military is “determined” and “committed” to executing its mandate to ensure that there is “peace and tranquillity” in Nigeria

“There are challenges all over the region. We are working together as a team in synergy among the armed forces, and other security agencies and we call on all Nigerians to take ownership of the challenges that are going on in Nigeria,” he said.

“Security is everybody’s responsibility not only our own. We are happy that you know our challenges and you are ready and willing to assist and we assure you that we will not take that for granted.

“We assure you, including all Nigerians that we are ready to go forward (with) whatever it takes for us to ensure that there is peace in Nigeria because it is not only for us to, it is for our children.

“We all grew up in an atmosphere of peace and justice and that is what we are working towards.”

Babajimi Benson, chairman of the committee, said he understands the challenges of the military, promising to provide the necessary support.

“We understand that you live in a very challenging situation. We understand that you need money for barracks, weapons aircraft, and there is paucity of funds,” he said.