NEWS DIGEST: In a recent statement issued by his media aide, Garba Shehu, former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari expressed deep sadness and anguish over the deaths of several soldiers who were killed in an ambush by bandits, as well as the tragic helicopter crash in Niger State.
Buhari, who served as the president of Nigeria from 2015 to 2021, conveyed his condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the families of the deceased soldiers. He also extended his condolences to President Bola Tinubu and the Armed Forces of the Federation, recognizing the immense losses they have suffered.
The former president emphasized his sorrow over the helicopter accident and the ambush that claimed the lives of the brave soldiers. He stated, “My thoughts are with the bereaved families. I hope those injured recover at the earliest.” Buhari also expressed his confidence in the discipline and resilience of the Nigerian troops, stating, “With the soldier-discipline in our troops, it is a matter of time before they overcome.”
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The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed on Thursday that 36 officers lost their lives in the ambush that took place in Niger State. Furthermore, a Nigerian Air Force MI-171 Helicopter, which was on a casualty evacuation mission, tragically crashed in the Shiroro Local Government Area of the state on Monday.
Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, revealed that an investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the helicopter crash. He urged citizens to remain cautious of propaganda spread by terrorists and to remain loyal and patriotic to their country.
The series of unfortunate incidents in Niger State have left the nation and its former president in mourning. The loss of these soldiers in the ambush and the helicopter crash is a devastating blow to Nigeria’s armed forces. The nation stands united in grief and support for the families of the deceased, as well as for the injured soldiers who are fighting for their recovery.
