The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has attributed the tragic deaths of 10 villagers in Sokoto State to a “secondary explosion” at a terrorist logistics base rather than a direct military airstrike. This clarification came during a media briefing in Abuja, led by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, who detailed the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Buba explained that the Nigerian Air Force had conducted a precision-guided airstrike targeting a hideout used by the Lakurawa terrorist group. The operation aimed to dismantle the group’s logistics infrastructure in the area. However, the airstrike inadvertently caused the detonation of explosives stored at the base, leading to the fatalities.
“The airstrike indeed hit the logistics base of the terrorists, which led to secondary explosions. It was these explosions that caused the casualties reported earlier,” Buba said.
Inside the Terrorist Logistics Base
According to Buba, the targeted facility contained hazardous materials, including hand cartridges and other explosive devices. When the Air Force munitions struck the base, the resulting explosion propelled deadly debris across the area, causing the unfortunate deaths.
“When I talk of the logistics base, I’m referring to hand cartridges and poles that were kept there,” Buba elaborated. “Naturally, when the munition hits, there will be a secondary explosion arising from that, which will generate… you know, other things flying in the air. That led to the death of about 10 persons that were reported. The 10 persons were not hit directly by the airstrikes.”
Intelligence-Driven Operation
The military official highlighted the thorough preparation preceding the operation, underscoring the use of both surveillance technology and human intelligence to verify the presence of terrorists in the area. The operation, initially planned for an earlier date, was postponed to ensure minimal civilian impact.
“Sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance were conducted over an extended period to confirm the presence of terrorists in the area and to ensure that those present were indeed terrorists,” Buba disclosed. “Due to these painstaking measures, the operation, initially scheduled for an earlier date, had to be rescheduled to the 25th, when it was ultimately carried out.”
The coordinated strike began at 6 a.m. on the designated day, leveraging the Air Force’s precision-guided munitions and the Nigerian Army’s ground forces. Buba described the operation as a “joint effort,” ensuring maximum impact on the terrorists while minimising harm to surrounding villages.
Aftermath of the Strike
Ground forces later confirmed the operation’s success, noting the destruction of key terrorist infrastructure and the neutralisation of multiple fighters. Survivors from the Lakurawa group reportedly fled the area, relying on their familiarity with the terrain to evade capture.
“Locals in the community also confirmed that the terrorists had been using the area as a staging ground for their operations,” Buba said.
The Lakurawa group has been notorious for its attacks in the region, and intelligence reports consistently identified the targeted location as a hub for their operations. Military officials believe the successful strike dealt a significant blow to the group’s capabilities.
Civilian Impact and Military Accountability
Buba assured Nigerians that the military remains committed to minimising harm to civilians in its counter-terrorism operations. He acknowledged the tragic loss of life but emphasised that the deaths were an unintended consequence of the secondary explosion, not the airstrike itself.
“The operation’s primary objective was achieved, and the impact on surrounding villages was minimal,” he stated.
The military is conducting further reviews to refine its operational protocols and enhance measures to protect civilian lives during such missions.
Local Testimonies
Residents of the affected community corroborated the military’s account, describing the terrorists’ presence in the area as a menace. One villager, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal, said, “The terrorists have been operating here for months, using this area as a base. The military’s action was long overdue, but it’s sad that some of our people got caught up in it.”
Another local expressed hope that the operation would deter future attacks. “We just want peace. If this operation can bring an end to the terrorism we’ve been suffering, it’s worth it,” the resident said.
Broader Military Efforts
The Sokoto operation is part of the Nigerian Armed Forces’ broader campaign to dismantle terrorist networks across the country. Recent weeks have seen intensified airstrikes and ground operations in areas plagued by insurgency.
“The military will continue to conduct operations aimed at eliminating terrorist threats while ensuring the safety of Nigerian citizens,” Buba said.
As the nation grapples with the complexities of countering terrorism, the incident in Sokoto serves as a grim reminder of the human cost of conflict. The Defence Headquarters’ statement reiterates the delicate balance between achieving military objectives and protecting civilian lives.
