In a tragic turn of events on Christmas Day, an airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), intended to neutralize Lakurawa terrorists, accidentally struck two communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The incident, which targeted hideouts near the Surame forest, resulted in the death of at least 10 residents, with several others injured.
The affected villages, Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa, had been identified as near terrorist hideouts, prompting the operation. However, eyewitnesses reported that the bombs fell on innocent civilians, disrupting what should have been a peaceful holiday.
Malam Yahya, a resident of Silame, recounted the devastation, saying, “No fewer than 10 villagers lost their lives, while many others sustained injuries.” Abubakar Daftarana, Chairman of Silame Local Government Area, expressed shock, noting that the victims were peace-loving villagers with no ties to criminal activity.
NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, stated that the operation was based on credible intelligence and aerial surveillance but assured the public that reports of civilian casualties would be thoroughly investigated. “We aim for precision in all our operations and will review the incident to understand what went wrong,” he said.
The Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that military actions are conducted with thorough reconnaissance to minimize civilian impact.
Drone Attack on Military Base in Borno
Meanwhile, terrorists targeted a military Forward Operating Base in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, using drones and mortars. The initial attack, launched on Tuesday afternoon, was repelled by troops, but a second assault involving armed drones left five soldiers injured and damaged military equipment.
A signal obtained by reporters detailed the incident, revealing that four drones equipped with improvised grenades were used in the attack. The injured soldiers received first aid and were awaiting evacuation for further treatment. Despite the setback, the military reported that troop morale and combat efficiency remained strong.
Leadership Responds
Reacting to the incidents, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa warned citizens against engaging in any form of trade with terrorists, stating that such actions undermine military efforts. “These groups have no loyalty and will eventually harm even those who collaborate with them,” he said.
General Musa lamented missed opportunities to tackle terrorism early but expressed optimism about ongoing operations. “We are committed to making Nigeria peaceful in 2025 and will leave no stone unturned to achieve this goal,” he added.
Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, celebrated Christmas with troops in Maiduguri, commending their dedication and reaffirming the government’s commitment to providing modern equipment to end the insurgency. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum pledged continued support, announcing financial aid for wounded soldiers.
Moving Forward
As investigations into the Sokoto airstrike continue, the incidents highlight the challenges of counter-insurgency operations in densely populated and volatile regions. The military remains resolute in its mission to restore peace while urging cooperation from civilians to avoid further loss of innocent lives.
