Following outrage triggered by the military jet strikes in Sokoto state the Nigerian armed forces authorities have clarified the reports making the rounds in the social media, stressing that the air strikes targeted the Lakurawa terrorists based on intelligence.
The Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma on Wednesday in a statement signed by the Coordinator Joint Media Coordination Centre Operation Fansan Yamma, Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi refuted the reports that military fighter jet bombed civilian structures.
According to the statement titled: Joint Task Force North West Clarifies Reports on Jet Strike in Sokoto, the armed forces said, “Importantly, the targets struck in the vicinity of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa have been positively identified as associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the military action taken”.
The military informed that it has addressed recent reports concerning a military fighter jet allegedly bombing civilian structures in the Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
According to it, “These reports have raised concerns; however, it is crucial to clarify that all military operations are conducted based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions.
“This rigorous process is particularly important when targeting groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organization, as it aims to ensure precision and protect civilian lives.
“Given the serious nature of these operations, the public is urged to rely on confirmed information to prevent misinformation and unnecessary panic. There is a significant risk that terrorist groups may attempt to undermine military successes through media disinformation, necessitating caution concerning unverified claims, especially in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry”.
