A devastating military airstrike has left at least 10 villagers dead and many others injured in Sokoto State, Nigeria.
The incident occurred on Wednesday around 7 a.m. in the Silame Local Government Area, where a Nigerian military fighter jet targeted terrorists but accidentally struck Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa communities instead.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State has expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and announced a relief package of N20 million and 100 bags of food for the victims.
He also assured residents of a thorough investigation into the incident, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army.
According to Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Daftarana, chairman of Silame LGA, “The villagers were sitting peacefully when bombs began dropping on the communities. These were innocent, peace-loving people with no criminal records.”
Governor Aliyu described the incident as “heartbreaking” and pledged to support the affected families. He also urged residents to remain calm and united, praying for peace and the swift recovery of those injured.
As noted in a recent report, Nigeria’s military mistakes have resulted in significant civilian casualties, with over 425 people killed in accidental bombings between 2017 and 2023.
