Defence Headquarters: Sokoto Civilian Deaths Result of Secondary Explosion, Not Airstrikes

Defence Headquarters: Sokoto Civilian Deaths Result of Secondary Explosion, Not Airstrikes

By Ayshatu S. Rabo

The Defence Headquarters has clarified that the tragic deaths of 10 civilians in Gidan Bisa and Gidan Ruutuwa, Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, were caused by a secondary explosion and not direct military airstrikes.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known during a press briefing in Abuja on Friday.

Maj.-Gen. Buba detailed that the incident occurred during a joint operation on Dec. 25, involving both the Air and Land Components of Operation Fassan Yamma.

The operation targeted Lakurawa terrorist groups, who had been confirmed to be operating from the area through sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.

Coordinated Precision Strikes
Maj.-Gen. Buba explained that the operation began after intelligence reports were corroborated by human intelligence, confirming the presence of the terrorist group in the vicinity.

“Aircraft were dispatched to conduct precision airstrikes on identified hideouts at approximately 0600 hours that day,” he said.

“The strikes were executed with precision-guided munitions to minimise collateral damage, while ground troops were strategically positioned to block escape routes and assess the impact.”

The military confirmed the success of the operation, with the terrorist hideouts neutralised and minimal damage observed in surrounding villages. Ground forces reported that several terrorists were eliminated, with their bodies burnt beyond recognition.

Secondary Explosion Identified
On the civilian casualties, Maj.-Gen. Buba noted that the deaths were linked to a secondary explosion caused by the detonation of materials stored by the terrorists in their hideout.

“The military minimised civilian casualties by executing precision strikes,” he said. “However, secondary explosions, triggered by terrorist-stored explosives, resulted in the unfortunate loss of lives.”

Commitment to Professionalism
Maj.-Gen. Buba reaffirmed the military’s commitment to professionalism and its focus on neutralising threats while protecting civilians.

“Every innocent soul lost during our operations is a tragedy. We deeply sympathise with their families,” he said.

“But it is important to understand that our troops are highly professional and committed to turning the tide against insurgents and terrorists.”

He urged the public to continue supporting the military in its efforts to restore peace and stability across the nation.

The Defence Headquarters reiterated its dedication to minimising civilian harm in its operations while maintaining pressure on terrorist groups to ensure the safety of Nigerians.

Defence Headquarters: Sokoto Civilian Deaths Result of Secondary Explosion, Not Airstrikes