Several civilians are feared dead and others injured following airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force in Sokoto State, local sources and officials confirmed on Thursday.
The airstrikes, which took place on Wednesday, targeted the Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in the Silame local government area, located near Surame Forest, a known stronghold for armed groups. While the operation aimed at neutralizing these groups, unintended civilian casualties have raised significant concerns.
Local sources reported that at least 10 people were killed in the airstrikes. “It was devastating. Many homes were destroyed, and people are in shock,” said a resident from one of the affected communities.
Abubakar Daftarana, chairman of the Silame local government area, stated that efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and casualties. “Our priority is to support the affected families and gather accurate information,” he added.
Nigerian Air Force spokesperson Olusola Akinboyewa confirmed the airstrikes and reassured the public that an investigation would be conducted to determine the full scale of civilian harm. “The operation was based on credible intelligence and aerial surveillance. However, we are aware of reports of civilian casualties, and we will thoroughly investigate the incident,” Akinboyewa said.
This incident follows a similar attack in December 2023, when airstrikes in Kaduna State resulted in the deaths of at least 85 people, which the government described as an “unfortunate and unintended” outcome of a military operation.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the Sokoto airstrikes, with further updates expected as they work to confirm the number of casualties and assess the impact of the operation. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of conducting military operations in areas with dense civilian populations.