A former Senate President representing Yobe North, Ahmad Lawan, has called for an inquiry into the clash between the military and civilians, reportedly resulting in the deaths of three civilians by soldiers in Gashu’a, the headquarters of Bade local government area in Yobe State.
According to reports, the soldiers allegedly discharged their firearms indiscriminately at groups of demonstrators as they approached a stop-and-search checkpoint near Gashua bridge, protesting the killing of a tricycle operator.
The President of the Ninth Senate issued a statement on Sunday, urging the military to promptly investigate the tragic occurrence.
“Efforts must be made by the Nigerian Army to ensure that the perpetrators behind the acts of violence are held accountable and responsible for their actions”.
“Gashua community has always been a peaceful place with calm people, who always give support and cooperate with the military, paramilitary, and, indeed, all government agents operating in the town” he said.
He further appealed to residents for calm, while assuring that he has already spoken with military authorities to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and dealt with according to the law. He emphasized that justice will be served.
“I am deeply saddened by Sunday’s tragic event that took place in Gashua, Yobe State, where soldiers allegedly killed three innocent civilians who were amongst those protesting the killing of a tricycle operator by the soldiers”.
“I call on the military authorities to swiftly investigate and bring to justice those responsible for the killings. Those behind these senseless acts of violence must be held accountable for their actions. Justice must be served for the victims and their families”, the statement reads in part.
Encouraging the Gashua community in the Bade local government area to maintain calm and peace during this tragic time, he offered prayers for the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.