In an open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Zamfara State, Bello Galadi, has called for a thorough investigation into the Tudun Biri bombing.
Galadi urged Tinubu to establish a high-powered panel of inquiry composed of individuals with unquestionable integrity, emphasizing the importance of making the investigation’s findings public.
The open letter highlighted the constitutional and human rights considerations surrounding the sanctity of human life, stressing that no life should be lost except as permitted by the law.
Galadi called for immediate action and recommended the payment of N229,548,000,000 as ‘Diyya’ (blood money) to the families of each victim, following Islamic Law provisions.
The letter further outlined a comprehensive set of actions for President Tinubu to take in response to the tragedy.
This includes providing educational scholarships for the children of the victims, rebuilding the Tudun Biri Community, and ensuring the provision of basic infrastructure such as water, electricity, roads, mobile networks, schools, and clinics.
Galadi proposed the suspension of pending investigations involving key officials, including the Minister of Defence, State Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Air Staff, National Security Adviser, General Officer Commanding One Division, Nigerian Army, and the Head of Aviation Unit, Nigerian Army.
He insisted on a fair and public trial for anyone indicted by the panel, emphasizing the importance of not sparing anyone, regardless of their political connections.
In addition, the letter urged President Tinubu to visit the families of the victims personally, declaring the incident as requiring his physical condolences.
It emphasized that government delegations’ visits were insufficient. The letter also called for a national address on the Tudun Biri killings, declaring a national mourning period to honor the approximately 120 victims, including women and children.
Addressing the broader security concerns, Galadi recommended an overhaul of the security architecture through training, re-training, and the provision of modern gadgets for security personnel.
He stressed the need for professionalism within the Nigerian Army, emphasizing the critical importance of distinguishing between civilians and terrorists, especially during nighttime operations.
Galadi concluded the letter by urging various organizations, including the National Assembly, Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Governors Forum, Nigerian Bar Association, National Human Rights Commission, Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, and the Kaduna State Government, to launch independent probes into the Tudun Biri killings rather than relying solely on federal government investigations.
The comprehensive set of recommendations reflects the urgency and gravity of the Tudun Biri incident, as well as the broader issues surrounding security, justice, and accountability in Nigeria.
The call for thorough investigations and systemic reforms underscores the need for collective efforts to address the complex challenges facing the nation.
