The Nigerian military has denied allegations that recent airstrikes conducted in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State resulted in civilian casualties, asserting that the operations were aimed at identified terrorist strongholds linked to the Lakurawa group.
Reports surfaced on Wednesday suggesting that airstrikes by the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji (OPHD) inadvertently killed over ten villagers and injured several others in the Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities. The claims sparked outrage and raised concerns about the potential harm to civilians during counterterrorism operations.
In a statement issued by Abubakar Abdullahi, Joint Media Coordinator for OPHD, the military dismissed the allegations, maintaining that the airstrikes were carefully planned and executed based on credible intelligence and thorough reconnaissance to minimize the risk of civilian harm.
“These reports have raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions,” Abdullahi stated. “This rigorous process ensures precision, especially when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organisation, and aims to protect civilian lives.”
Abdullahi cautioned against accepting unverified claims, emphasizing that terrorist groups often resort to media disinformation to undermine military successes. He reiterated that the locations struck near Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa had been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, justifying the military’s actions.
Olusola Akinboyewa, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, corroborated the military’s position, confirming that the strikes were based on intelligence from multiple credible sources and validated by aerial surveillance.
“Nevertheless, reports of possible harm to civilians will be thoroughly investigated, and we will update you appropriately,” Akinboyewa assured.
Operation Hadarin Daji, a military initiative aimed at combating terrorism and banditry in the North-West region, has intensified its activities in recent months. While the military insists on its commitment to minimizing civilian casualties, the challenges of distinguishing combatants from civilians in conflict zones remain a pressing issue.
The allegations have drawn attention to the delicate balance between conducting effective counterterrorism operations and safeguarding civilian lives. Observers have urged the military to conduct a transparent investigation into the incident to address public concerns and enhance accountability.
As of the time of this report, no independent verification of the alleged civilian casualties has been provided, and the military continues to defend its actions as necessary for national security.
