Bandits Downed Chopper. Government’s Slow Response Raises Questions
In a gripping turn of events, a shocking truth has emerged surrounding the NAF helicopter tragedy, unraveling a fierce clash between brave security forces and armed bandits in Niger State.
This revelation stands in contrast to the initial account provided by the President, which painted the incident as a simple crash.
The fateful mission commenced as the NAF helicopter set off to provide assistance to 12 valiant individuals who had confronted heavily armed bandits in Niger State. Initially, the Air Force’s response remained veiled in secrecy, offering scant information about the crash of the MI-17 Helicopter on Monday and the events leading up to it.
After a day of silence, President Bola Tinubu addressed the nation, expressing grief over the “tragic loss” of soldiers in a helicopter crash near Shiroro, Niger State. However, this belated response raised concerns among Nigerians about the government’s sluggish reaction to a grave security crisis
The President’s assertion of a mere “crash” left many skeptical, fostering suspicions that the true story was being concealed. The absence of an explanation for the crash left a void that hinted at concealed details, igniting speculation that the government might not be disclosing the full truth.
Contrary to the President’s narrative, eyewitnesses near the crash site provided a different narrative. They revealed that armed bandits had, taken down the helicopter in the Shiroro District, while it was transporting wounded and fallen soldiers from a prior skirmish.
Viral videos circulated on social media unveiled a grim tableau: lifeless bodies sprawled amidst the wreckage, while armed individuals (believed to be affiliated with the bandits) rejoiced in their presumed triumph.
The real story was that security forces bravely faced off against the armed bandits. The clash happened near Kundu Via Zungeru, where hundreds of these armed bandits tried to cross into Akare, stealing cattle along the way. Sadly, lives were lost among the security forces and some volunteers who joined the fight.
In the midst of this intense battle, another tragedy struck. The MI-171 Helicopter, on a mission to help the fallen soldiers and the injured, crashed near Chukuba Village in Shiroro Local Government. The helicopter had taken off from Zungeru Primary School and lost contact while heading to Minna.
These jarring events prompted local leaders, including Senator Sani Musa, to urge swift action from the Federal Government. As attacks proliferated across Niger State, safeguarding innocent lives and property acquired a pressing urgency
As the nation grapples with the gravity of this heartrending tragedy, the NAF helicopter incident stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices borne by our valiant security forces. The truth laid bare by this sorrowful episode underscores the unwavering commitment of those who put everything on the line to shield their communities from the perils posed by ruthless bandits.