The United Nations (UN) and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (ICRC) have reacted to the accidental Nigerian air force strike on a camp for displaced people on Tuesday, which resulted in the killing of dozens of civilians. The global body has asked the Nigerian government to ensure a thorough investigation of the attack and ensure that the unfortunate incident does not happen again.

According to a statement issued by the Office of the UN Secretary-General, the global body also appealed for greater measures in protecting civilians in the areas of military operations against Boko Haram insurgents.

“UN humanitarian officials are also questioning how a military airstrike ended up striking the displacement camp. Intermingled with messages of sympathy and solidarity with the victims, UN agencies called for a full investigation and greater measures to protect civilians going forward,” the UN said.

At least 76 people have been killed while about 120 other occupants of the Rann camp in Kala-Balge Local Government Area were injured in the attack. The military has claimed responsibility for the bombing and said it was a serious error as the original targets were suspected Boko Haram members, Premium Times reports.

The Federal government of Nigeria has also declared an investigation into the incident, as the President's Chief of Staff led a government delegation to Borno on Wednesday over the incident.

Anita Fatunji