Lakurawa: Military refutes alleged civilian casualties in Sokoto airstrikes

Kunle Sanni

The Nigerian military has refuted reports that recent airstrikes in Silame Local Government Area (LGA) of Sokoto State targeted civilians, insisting that the operation was aimed at neutralizing terrorist elements.

Reports surfaced on Wednesday, alleging that airstrikes by the air component of Operation Hadarin Daji had mistakenly hit the Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities, resulting in the deaths of over 10 villagers and injuries to several others.

In a statement, Abubakar Abdullahi, the joint media coordinator for the operation, dismissed the claims, stating that the strikes were directed at confirmed locations linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group.

“All military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions to ensure precision and to avoid harm to civilian lives,” Abdullahi said.

The military reiterated it’s commitment to safeguarding civilians while pursuing operations aimed at restoring peace and security in the region.

“These reports have raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions,” the statement reads.

“This rigorous process is particularly important when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organisation, as it aims to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.

“There is a significant risk that terrorist groups may attempt to undermine military successes through media disinformation, necessitating caution concerning unverified claims, especially in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.

“Importantly, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken.”