NAF to investigate killing of Sokoto villagers in airstrike

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it will launch a thorough investigation into the raining of airstrikes on two villages in Sokoto on Wednesday.

According to residents, the incident, which occurred around 7 am at Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area (LGA), claimed the lives of 10 civilians and left many other people injured.

Animals were also reportedly killed, with residents saying some of their houses were destroyed by the impact of the airstrikes.

The locals said the fighter jet was targeting Lakurawa terrorists in the area, but in the process, dropped explosives on some innocent people.

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However, in a statement, the joint media coordinator for the operation, Lt. Col.Abubakar Abdullahi, said the airstrikes targeted locations confirmed to be associated with the Lakurawa terrorist group.

Abdullahi said all military operations are based on “thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions” to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.

“These reports have raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions,” the statement reads.

Also reacting, the NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, insisted the airstrikes were carried out based on credible intelligence from multiple sources and confirmatory aerial surveillance.

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He, however, assured that reports of civilian casualties would be thoroughly investigated.

“The airstrikes were conducted based on credible intelligence from multiple sources, along with confirmatory aerial surveillance. Nevertheless, reports of possible harm to civilians will be thoroughly investigated and we will update you appropriately,” he said.