Isa Ali Pantami, former minister of communications and digital economy, says the bombing of over 80 persons in Tudun Biri in Igabi LGA of Kaduna was avoidable.
Pantami, in a post on his X page on Wednesday, said the incident could have been avoided if the army had infused artificial intelligence (AI) with its operations.
On Sunday, military air strikes killed scores of villagers in the Kaduna village.
Multiple reports said the death toll from the bombing has hit 120, with scores left badly injured.
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The Nigerian Army has claimed responsibility for the incident, stating that its troops were on a routine mission against terrorists when the “mistake” occurred.
In the post, Pantami said his observation of the aerial pictures of the bombed gathering of religious worshippers, shared by the military, showed there is a “huge gap” in the army’s coordination of data.
He said the Nigerian armed forces can achieve almost 100 percent accuracy in their operations with the application of AI or machine learning.
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“Looking at the picture of the Maulud gathering (as shared online, and hereby attached), the decoration of the venue as well as their dressing among others, I strongly believe there could be a huge gap somewhere, either in the military personnel, facilities or the data provided,” Pantami wrote.
“Firstly, this kind of mistake or negligence can easily be avoided in this era of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) or Industry 4.0 that we are witnessing through the use of emerging technologies or destructive technologies.
“With emerging technologies such as the application of artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning, almost 100% accuracy can be attained while using drones for wars and other military operations.
“Secondly, in the application of AI algorithms, the military can attain what is called “target identification” with almost 100% accuracy. Yes, the accuracy can be mostly 100%.
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“The AI algorithm can effectively be used to analyse sensor data to identify, evaluate, and classify targets with almost impeccable precision and accuracy. It is also strongly recommended that when you are not 100% sure of the target to withhold the striking.”
The former minister said the deployment of AI would also help in managing drones to recognise specific objects, such as criminals’ facilities, locations, or vehicles, and differentiate them from innocent people or civilians.
He also advised the armed forces to allow personnel operating military drones to undergo advanced training to put an end to such “awful occurrences”.
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