At least 10 civilians who lost their lives in a military airstrike on Christmas Day in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State have been laid to rest, according to local sources.
The tragic incident occurred in Gidan Sanma and Rumtuwa villages, where residents reported that multiple airstrikes killed both humans and animals, leaving a trail of destruction.
Survivors recounted the harrowing moments of the attack. “It’s multiple airstrikes. The big one fell here, causing heavy destruction which affected our houses and food silos,” one resident said.
Nine victims reportedly died on the spot, while the tenth succumbed to injuries later.
The airstrike also decimated dozens of livestock, burnt food silos, and razed several homes, displacing many peasant farmers in the area.
While the military claimed the operation targeted terrorists based on intelligence, this is not the first time such airstrikes have resulted in civilian casualties.
Similar incidents have been reported in Borno, Niger, and Kaduna states.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State condemned the incident and called for a thorough investigation.
In a statement, the governor assured the victims’ families of his administration’s support and pledged to work with the military to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The tragic airstrike highlights a recurring issue of civilian casualties during military operations, sparking calls for improved intelligence and operational precision to safeguard innocent lives.