In the aftermath of the tragic accidental bombing in Tudun Biri, Kaduna State, the Country Director of Amnesty International, Isah Sanusi, provided an update, stating that the death toll had risen to over 120, contrary to the National Emergency Management Agency’s (NEMA) figure of 85.
News About Nigeria reports that Sanusi revealed that Amnesty International officials on the ground observed mass graves with at least 77 bodies each and an additional 17 casualties from nearby villages.
NEMA’s Chief Information Officer, Halima Suleman, acknowledged the agency’s initial report but said that the figures had not been updated.
Survivors of the incident claimed that the Nigerian Army bombed Tudun Biri twice during a religious celebration, intended to target terrorists.
The accidental strike occurred during the Maulud celebration, causing chaos and casualties.
Saudatu Alamagani, a survivor, told Punch that the military bombed the village twice.
She shared that the bombing began around 10 pm while the community was celebrating.
According to her, the military returned for a second bombardment when villagers were attempting to assist the critically injured.
“They bombed us twice,” she said, adding that “it all started around 10pm when the military started bombing our community. We were celebrating the Maulud, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.
“While we were looking for motorcycles to convey those that critically needed medical attention to the hospital, the military returned with the bombardment. Many villagers including women, men, children, and even pregnant women were killed during the attack.
“Four members of my family were killed in the attack. Some of the bodies of the dead littered the ground.”
Alamagani appealed to the government for assistance to alleviate the suffering of the affected community and victims’ families.
The incident has sparked condemnations from various quarters, with calls for accountability and punishment for those found culpable.
