The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to conduct a detailed investigation into reports of airstrikes that mistakenly hit two villages in Sokoto State. The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday morning, affecting Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in the Silame Local Government Area.
Eyewitnesses reported that the airstrikes, which happened around 7:00 a.m., caused significant destruction. Ten civilians were reportedly killed, while several others sustained injuries. In addition to human casualties, residents claimed that livestock were also lost, and several homes were destroyed during the attack.
According to locals, the fighter jet was targeting members of the Lakurawa terrorist group believed to be operating in the area. However, instead of hitting the intended targets, explosives reportedly landed in civilian settlements, leading to widespread devastation.
In response to the incident, the joint media coordinator for the military operation, Abubakar Abdullahi, clarified that all air operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance to minimize risks to civilians.
“These reports have raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions,” he stated.
NAF spokesperson Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa emphasized that the airstrikes were based on credible intelligence from multiple sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance.
However, he assured the public that reports of civilian casualties would be thoroughly investigated. “Reports of possible harm to civilians will be thoroughly investigated, and we will update you appropriately,” he said.
