Security expert Kingsley Uzoma has called for a comprehensive investigation into the reported deaths of civilians during a military airstrike in Sokoto State on Wednesday. The incident, which occurred in Silame Local Government Area, has sparked controversy over whether the military action was a mistake or a justified operation.
The Sokoto State Government alleged that a fighter jet mistakenly bombed two communities, killing about 10 villagers and injuring several others. “The military jets were on a mission to eliminate armed groups terrorizing the state but mistakenly bombed innocent people,” said Abubakar Bawa, Press Secretary to the Sokoto State Governor. He described the incident as an anomaly, noting the military’s prior successes in targeting criminal hideouts.
Funerals for the victims were held on December 25, 2024, as grieving families gathered to mourn the losses.
Military Denies Error
Contradicting the state government’s claims, the military maintained that the targets in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa were positively identified as linked to the Lakurawa group, a notorious criminal network. Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, spokesman for Operation Fansan Yamma, asserted that the strikes were justified and based on credible intelligence.
Call for Joint Investigation
Speaking on Channels Television’s Lunchtime Politics, Uzoma emphasized the need for an impartial probe to establish the facts. “Such an investigation must be joint, involving the military, police, civil defense, Nigerian Bar Association, credible civil society organizations, and media outlets. This ensures an unbiased report,” he stated.
Uzoma underscored the importance of public trust in military operations but stressed that transparency is crucial to uphold confidence. “The military’s position can only be authenticated through an inclusive and transparent investigation,” he said.
He further noted that if errors are uncovered, appropriate compensation should be offered to victims’ families, and measures should be taken to prevent future incidents.
Recurring Concerns over Airstrikes
This latest incident has reignited concerns over military airstrikes in civilian areas. In December 2023, at least 85 people were killed and several injured in Tudun Biri village, Igabi Local Government Area, during a military strike. The army admitted responsibility and apologized after widespread condemnation.
As calls grow for accountability and caution in military operations, stakeholders await the findings of the proposed investigation into the Sokoto airstrike, which could have significant implications for counter-terrorism strategies in the region.
