The Christmas spirit was shattered in Sokoto State on December 25, as military airstrikes reportedly killed ten villagers and destroyed livestock in Silame Local Government Area. Amnesty International has strongly condemned the incident, labeling the operation as an excessive and unlawful use of force by the Nigerian military.
In a scathing statement, Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, decried the attacks, stating, “Launching air raids is not a legitimate law enforcement method by any standard.” The advocacy group is now calling for an urgent and transparent investigation into the airstrikes, which it described as a “reckless disregard for civilian lives.”
The airstrike not only claimed lives but also decimated an entire family and left others grappling with the aftermath of destruction. Residents of the affected communities revealed that homes were obliterated, livestock was annihilated, and many were left in anguish.
“Entire families were killed inside their homes,” Mr. Sanusi lamented. “Some villagers were burnt to death in an inferno triggered by the airstrikes. This tragedy underscores the Nigerian military’s shocking disregard for the lives it supposedly exists to protect.”
The airstrikes were purportedly part of an ongoing military operation against banditry and terrorism in the region. However, local witnesses and human rights organizations argue that such tactics have caused more harm than good, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with calls for accountability ringing loud. Amnesty International emphasized that international humanitarian law demands that all feasible precautions be taken to minimize harm to civilians during military operations.
“The Christmas Day airstrikes on the two communities of Silame LGA of Sokoto State are unlawful and represent excessive force on a catastrophic scale,” the organization stated.
The use of air raids in civilian areas has been criticized as an ineffective and dangerous approach to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. Amnesty International pointed out that such actions often result in unintended casualties and exacerbate the suffering of vulnerable populations.
As of the time of reporting, the Nigerian military has yet to issue an official statement addressing the Sokoto airstrikes or the allegations raised by Amnesty International. This silence has further fueled public outrage and raised questions about accountability within the armed forces.
In recent years, the Nigerian military has faced criticism for its handling of internal security challenges. While the government has emphasized the need to combat banditry, insurgency, and terrorism, human rights organizations have repeatedly documented instances of excessive force and collateral damage.
The Sokoto airstrikes are not an isolated incident. Similar military actions have previously resulted in civilian casualties, raising concerns about the operational strategies employed by the armed forces. Critics argue that the lack of proper intelligence and coordination has often led to tragic outcomes.
For instance, in January 2017, a Nigerian Air Force fighter jet mistakenly bombed a camp for internally displaced persons in Rann, Borno State, killing over 100 civilians. More recently, in September 2023, another airstrike in Niger State reportedly killed several civilians during an operation targeting bandits.
“These recurring tragedies show a disturbing pattern,” Mr. Sanusi said. “The Nigerian authorities must urgently investigate the decision-making process and execution of these airstrikes to prevent further loss of innocent lives.”
Amnesty International is urging the Nigerian government to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into the Sokoto incident. The organization has called for the prosecution of those responsible for the airstrikes, as well as reparations for the affected families.
“The Nigerian government owes it to its citizens to ensure that such incidents are not swept under the rug,” Mr. Sanusi added. “Justice must be served for the victims and their families, and measures must be put in place to prevent such tragedies in the future.”
Benue State was thrown into mourning on Christmas Day as suspected armed herdsmen launched a brutal attack on the Anwase community in Kwande Local Government Area. The assault, which claimed 11 lives, occurred during what should have been a time of joy and celebration, leaving residents grappling with grief and fear.
The attackers reportedly stormed the community while families were gathered for Christmas festivities, unleashing chaos that saw homes burnt and lives lost. Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing moments of the assault.
“We received a distress message alerting us that ‘Nyiev-ya is under attack.’ By the time we reached the scene, it was devastating,” a local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, told reporters. “The herdsmen killed indiscriminately and set houses on fire. Daniel Jam’s son was among the victims. Pray for our community; we need God’s intervention.”
The violence was not confined to Anwase alone. Nearby communities, including Tse Azege and Ityuluv, also faced similar assaults. According to another resident, the attacks continued into December 26, underscoring the persistent threat posed by the assailants.
“If there is anything the government can do, it must act swiftly,” pleaded a distressed local. “The news from Kwande is far from pleasant; these terrorist herdsmen continue to ravage our communities without restraint.”
Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia expressed deep sorrow over the incident and condemned the attacks in no uncertain terms. In a statement issued by his media aide, Tersoo Kula, the governor vowed that the perpetrators would face justice.
“They may think they are unknown, but let me assure you, their time will come,” Alia declared. “The perpetrators of this heinous act will pay dearly for it. It is only a matter of time before they are brought to book.”
The governor also extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured them that his administration would not relent in its efforts to ensure their safety.
“My thoughts and prayers are with those who lost loved ones and those injured in this senseless attack. This government will do everything within its power to bring the perpetrators to justice,” he added.
