The Nigerian military has clarified that recent airstrikes conducted in Silame Local Government Area (LGA) of Sokoto State targeted associates of the Lakurawa terrorist group and were not directed at civilians.
Media reports had earlier alleged that the airstrikes by Operation Hadarin Daji’s air component inadvertently resulted in the deaths of over 10 villagers and left several others injured in the Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities.
Abubakar Abdullahi, Joint Media Coordinator for the operation, dismissed these claims in a statement, emphasizing that the strikes were the result of rigorous intelligence and reconnaissance to ensure precision and prevent civilian harm.
“These operations are conducted with utmost care, relying on credible intelligence and detailed reconnaissance missions,” the statement read. “The Lakurawa group, which was the target, has been positively identified, validating the action taken.”
The military also highlighted the risk of terrorist groups leveraging disinformation to undermine its successes and urged caution regarding unverified reports in the ongoing battle against terrorism and banditry.
Olusola Akinboyewa, spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, affirmed that the airstrikes were based on credible intelligence corroborated by aerial surveillance. “Reports of possible harm to civilians will be thoroughly investigated, and appropriate updates will be provided,” Akinboyewa added.
The military reiterated its commitment to protecting civilian lives while ensuring that all actions are guided by intelligence and operational diligence. It also warned against spreading unverified claims that could compromise ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
