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.

By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Command, Bethrand Onuoha, has ordered a statewide security clampdown to ensure safety and peace before, during, and after the Yuletide celebrations.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP William Ovye Aya, on Monday in Lokoja.
According to the statement, CP Onuoha gave the directive while addressing the Command Management Team and Tactical Commanders at the Command Headquarters in Lokoja.
The Commissioner disclosed that the Command has rolled out an intensive crime prevention and control strategy to safeguard lives and property throughout the festive period.
He assured residents that the Police, working in synergy with other security agencies, remain committed to eliminating criminal activities and improving public safety.
CP Onuoha directed Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) and Area Commanders to mobilize personnel and operational assets for high-visibility patrols on highways, residential areas, and worship centers.
He further tasked them to secure vulnerable locations and conduct undercover operations in black spots and crime-prone areas to apprehend offenders before they strike.
The CP called on residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies. He emphasized the role of community collaboration in intelligence gathering to boost crime prevention and management.
Reiterating the ban on fireworks, CP Onuoha warned parents to prevent their children from using knockouts and other explosives.
He stated that violators would face arrest and prosecution, stressing that such acts could lead to public disorder.
The CP assured Kogi residents of watertight security measures and urged law-abiding citizens to go about their activities without fear.
He, however, warned that anyone attempting to breach public peace or take the law into their hands would face the full wrath of the law.

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.