NAF Airstrike Accidentally Hits Sokoto Villages, Kills Civilians During Anti-Terror Mission

A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike targeting Lakurawa terrorists inadvertently struck two communities in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, killing several villagers and leaving many injured. The incident occurred in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa, two villages in Silame Local Government Area, near the Surame forest—a known terrorist hideout.

Eyewitnesses reported that the airstrike, which took place at approximately 7 a.m., disrupted the peaceful holiday celebrations in the affected communities. Malam Yahya, a resident of Silame, recounted, “No fewer than 10 villagers were killed, and several others sustained injuries during the airstrike meant for the terrorists.”

Abubakar Daftarana, Chairman of Silame Local Government Area, expressed shock over the tragedy. “The villagers were sitting peacefully when the bombs started dropping. They were innocent, peace-loving people with no criminal record. It is too early to confirm the exact number of casualties, but we are still assessing the situation,” he stated.

NAF Pledges Investigation

The Nigerian Air Force has promised a thorough investigation into the incident. Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF spokesperson, emphasized that the airstrikes were carried out based on credible intelligence and aerial surveillance. However, he assured that any claims of civilian casualties would be examined.

“The operation was 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 provide updates as necessary,” Akinboyewa said.

The Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma, also issued a statement defending the military action. Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullah, the task force’s media coordinator, clarified that the targets struck in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa were positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group. He added, “Our operations are always based on rigorous intelligence and reconnaissance to ensure precision and minimize civilian casualties.”

Drone Attack in Borno

Meanwhile, terrorists in Borno State attacked a military base in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area, using drones and mortars on Tuesday. Five soldiers sustained injuries during the assault.

The attack began with mortars and firearms but was repelled by troops. Shortly after, the terrorists launched multiple armed drones equipped with locally fabricated grenades, damaging equipment and injuring the soldiers.

A military report confirmed, “At approximately 13:00 hours, Forward Operating Base Wajiroko came under attack. Troops successfully repelled the initial assault, but a subsequent drone attack injured five soldiers and caused equipment damage.”

Efforts to confirm the attack with Operation Hadin Kai spokesperson Lt. Col. A.Y. Jingina were unsuccessful.

Military Leadership Responds

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, issued a stern warning against collaborating with terrorists. He called on Nigerians to stop trading with these groups, emphasizing the harm such actions inflict on security efforts.

“Those trading with terrorists are sabotaging the military’s work. Terrorists have no loyalty—they will eventually turn on you or your loved ones,” Musa said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, Musa noted that early inaction allowed the situation to fester. However, he assured Nigerians of the military’s commitment to restoring peace. “2025 will be a defining year. We will leave no stone unturned to ensure peace across Nigeria,” he said.

Army Chief, Borno Governor Praise Troops

In Maiduguri, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, celebrated Christmas with troops of Operation Hadin Kai, commending their dedication to fighting insurgency in the North East. He praised recent successes in neutralizing terrorists and assured the troops of continued support from President Bola Tinubu.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also lauded the military’s efforts and pledged sustained support. Represented by Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijjani, Zulum announced a cash gift of N2 million to injured frontline soldiers.

“We will continue to provide support to the military to ensure the fight against insurgency is brought to a successful conclusion,” Zulum said.