The Nigerian military has strongly defended its recent airstrikes in Sokoto State, insisting that the operation targeted members and associates of the notorious Lakurawa terrorist group, not civilians as widely speculated.

In response to reports alleging that the strikes mistakenly hit two communities in Silame Local Government Area, Lt. Col Abdullahi Abubakar, spokesman for the Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma, clarified that the operation was conducted based on credible intelligence and rigorous surveillance.

“Importantly, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa were positively identified as linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group,” Lt. Col Abubakar stated. “The operation was necessary to degrade their operational capacity and ensure the safety of residents.”

Abubakar emphasized that the military’s intelligence-gathering process prioritizes precision and minimizes risks to civilians. He acknowledged the sensitivity of the operation but stressed its importance in combating terrorism in the region.

“These strikes followed extensive reconnaissance to confirm the presence of terrorist elements in the area,” he said. “We deeply regret any civilian casualties that may have occurred, but we assure the public that the operation adhered to strict rules of engagement.”

The Joint Task Force also urged the public to avoid speculation and misinformation that could inflame tensions or undermine security efforts.

“We appeal to residents to remain calm and trust that ongoing operations are aimed at restoring peace and stability,” Abubakar added.

The military’s explanation comes after Sokoto State Governor’s Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, reported that at least ten civilians were killed in the strikes. However, the Joint Task Force has yet to verify this claim, stating that investigations are ongoing.

Meanwhile, security analysts have highlighted the challenges of conducting airstrikes in areas where terrorists often use civilians as shields. They noted that such operations, while essential, underscore the need for improved coordination and intelligence-sharing to avoid collateral damage.

Lt. Col Abubakar reaffirmed the military’s commitment to protecting civilian lives and called for public support in the fight against terrorism.

“Our forces are here to protect Nigerians, not harm them. We will continue to work tirelessly to eliminate terrorist threats and ensure lasting peace,” he concluded.

As the dust settles over Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa, the military maintains that its focus remains on dismantling terrorist networks and securing the region.
Residents, however, remain watchful, hoping for both security and safety in the aftermath of the operation.

The majority of the country’s 36 state governors have endorsed the creation of state police to decisively contain the escalating insecurity across Nigeria.
This decision cameduring a National Economic Council (NEC) meeting held on Thursday, December 12, 2024, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, bringing the proposal one step closer to reality. A final resolution is expected to be reached in January 2025.

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, who spoke to the press after the meeting, confirmed that all 36 states had submitted their recommendations in favor of establishing state police.
While the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) under Nyesom Wike did not present its proposal, the overwhelming support from the other states emphasized the urgent need for tailored security measures to address the specific challenges faced by each region.

Governor Sani explained that the push for state police is driven by the recognition of Nigeria’s vast ungoverned areas and the shortage of security personnel. He highlighted that the current security forces, including the police and military, are stretched thin and unable to effectively cover all areas of the country. The governors believe that state police would enhance local security efforts and offer a more effective response to the growing violence in many regions.

Although the NEC meeting did not finalize the creation of state police, it was agreed that further consultations would take place before a decision is made. The next NEC meeting, scheduled for January 2025, will include additional discussions and stakeholder engagements to ensure all concerns are addressed before a final resolution is passed.

The establishment of state police is seen as a crucial step in addressing the worsening security situation in Nigeria, where the central government’s security agencies have struggled to contain the rising tide of violence and insecurity.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has revealed that some individuals and groups, including civilians and military personnel, are profiting from the ongoing insurgency in the region.
Speaking as a guest on Channels TV on Sunday night, Zulum stated that these beneficiaries extend beyond Borno and are spread across the country.

He disclosed that informants within local communities and even military officers supplying ammunition to insurgents have been uncovered, complicating efforts to restore peace.
“Many times, informants were arrested within the community, and military personnel were caught trying to provide ammunition to the insurgents,” Zulum said.

The Governor also highlighted the role of porous borders, particularly around Lake Chad and the Sambisa forest, in creating safe havens for terrorists.
He noted foreign involvement as another factor fueling the prolonged crisis.

“Some people, across various strata, do not want to see the end of this crisis because they benefit from it,” Zulum remarked, emphasizing the complexity of resolving the insurgency due to these hidden interests.

Zulum’s candid revelations underscore the challenges facing counter-insurgency efforts in Borno, where both internal and external factors continue to fuel the decade-long conflict.