The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has initiated an investigation following reports that its recent air strikes in Zamfara State may have led to the unintended deaths of over 16 civilians and local vigilantes.
The incident, which occurred last weekend, involved missile strikes in Tungar Kara, Zurmi Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara.
Initial reports suggest that the vigilantes, who were part of local security efforts, were mistakenly targeted after suspected bandits had fled the scene.
An intelligence source quoted by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, confirmed that the vigilantes were misidentified as bandits during the operation.
While the NAF’s Director of Public Relations, Olusola Akinboyewa, initially dismissed the claims of civilian casualties, stating there was no credible report to suggest such deaths, he later expressed concern after further allegations surfaced.
“The air strikes were based on reliable intelligence,” Akinboyewa had told TheCable on Sunday, insisting that no civilians were harmed.
However, the Zamfara State government contradicted this claim, asserting that civilian lives were indeed lost during Operation Fansan Yamma, which targeted “troubled” areas in Maradun and Zurmi LGAs.
In a subsequent statement, Akinboyewa acknowledged the distressing reports and reiterated the NAF’s commitment to transparency.
“We are deeply concerned by these allegations. As a professional military force dedicated to the security of the nation, the NAF holds the life of every Nigerian in the highest regard,” he said.
He added that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the facts and ensure accountability, promising that the findings would be communicated to the public in due course.
The NAF reaffirmed its ongoing mission to combat banditry in the North West, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of civilians remain paramount.
“We are committed to working with relevant authorities to minimize harm to innocent civilians and prevent damage to civilian infrastructure during operations,” the statement concluded.
This incident brings attention to the broader issue of military air strikes in Nigeria, which, despite efforts to target insurgents, have occasionally resulted in civilian casualties.
In December 2023, Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa vowed to prevent such tragedies in future air strikes, affirming that the military’s primary duty is to protect Nigerians, not harm them.
 has initiated an investigation following reports that its recent air strikes in Zamfara State may have led to the unintended deaths of over 16 civilians and local vigilantes.){kind=link}