Nigerian Army Investigates Alleged Killing Of Civilians, 100 Cattle In Kaduna

The Nigerian Army has initiated an investigation into allegations that soldiers were involved in the killing of three civilians and over 100 cattle during an operation in Sabon Birnin village, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

According to The Punch, individuals dressed in army uniforms, believed to be soldiers, allegedly attacked the Sabon Birnin Daji cattle market on Sunday afternoon, leading to the death of three people and the destruction of over 100 cows.

Witnesses claimed that the soldiers opened fire on the animals, causing chaos as traders fled for safety.

One resident, Shehu Sabon Birni, described the aftermath: “The dead animals are scattered in the market, causing an offensive odour, making life unpleasant.

“It was a horrific scene when the soldiers arrived at the market, some of them on motorcycles, and started shooting the animals. Two people were killed in the chaos.

“Now, over 100 dead cows are scattered throughout the market, and the nearby houses are overwhelmed by the stench. We are still unsure why the soldiers took such drastic action.”

Islamic scholar Dr. Ahmad Gumi also commented on the incident in a video shared on his Facebook page, stating, “Banditry has a cause. And this is part of it. Two wrongs don’t make a right, especially when committed by those entrusted with our protection.”

In response, the Army’s Director of Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, expressed condolences to the families affected and the Sabon Birni community.

He assured that the incident would be thoroughly investigated, and any personnel found responsible would face consequences.

Major General Nwachukwu stated, “The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a disturbing news report with gory pictures/video footages published in some mainstream and social media platforms alleging that troops of 1 Division annihilated 3 persons and some cattle during a recent operation at Sabon Birni in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna state.

“While the Nigerian Army wishes to sympathize with the Sabon Birni community and families of the affected persons, we also wish to state that the allegation will be thoroughly investigated and any personnel found culpable will be appropriately sanctioned. It is also necessary to add that the NA, which is constitutionally mandated to protect the lives and property of the citizenry, can not tolerate doing otherwise.

“Accordingly, the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja has directed a thorough investigation into the incident to establish the immediate and remote causes of the incident and unravel those behind it.

“We therefore appeal for calm and assure the general public that the outcome of the investigation will also be made public.”