The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has pledged a thorough investigation into airstrikes that reportedly killed 10 civilians and injured several others in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities of Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State, on Wednesday.
The incident, which occurred around 7:00 a.m., also destroyed homes and livestock.
Residents say the strikes targeted Lakurawa terrorists hiding near Surame forest but unintentionally struck civilians, destroying homes and killing livestock.
Malam Yahya, a resident, stated, “The jet dropped explosives on innocent people while targeting terrorists.”
Initial reports from the military denied civilian casualties, sparking controversy. However, Governor Ahmad Aliyu later confirmed the deaths, describing the incident as “an accidental misfire from the Nigerian Army.”
The Governor extended condolences to affected families, announcing a donation of ₦20 million and 100 bags of food items to support them.
“I am in direct communication with the leadership of the Nigerian Army to ensure a thorough investigation,” he said.
In a statement, Lt. Col. Abubakar Abdullahi, joint media coordinator for the operation, clarified that the strikes were based on “thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions” to avoid civilian casualties.
Similarly, NAF spokesperson Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa confirmed that the strikes were conducted using credible intelligence and confirmatory aerial surveillance.
“Nevertheless, reports of possible harm to civilians will be thoroughly investigated and we will update you appropriately,” he added.
Governor Aliyu also visited the affected areas, describing the tragedy as “avoidable” and assuring residents of government support to prevent future occurrences.
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