The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has defended the military airstrikes conducted in Sokoto State, asserting that the operation targeted members of the Lakurawa terrorist group. The airstrikes, which occurred on Wednesday in the Silame Local Government Area, reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people and injuries to several others.
The Sokoto State Government, however, described those killed as “innocent villagers,” fueling criticism and concerns about civilian casualties. In response, General Musa visited the Giginya Cantonment in Sokoto the day after the incident, where he addressed journalists and reiterated that the operation was carried out with precision to target criminals.
“We followed up and ensured we avoided mistakes as much as possible,” General Musa stated. “From what we have seen, there were criminals in that place. Anybody that toyed with them was part of them.”
He acknowledged the potential for unintended consequences during military operations and announced that an investigation would be conducted to address any alleged errors.
The CDS appealed to civilians to refrain from supporting or harboring criminal elements, warning that doing so could make them targets.
“Our appeal is please do not allow them [criminals] to hang around you. Do not give them any support in whatever means,” he emphasized. “If you are not with them, please leave their area and come out so that it gives us the ability to deal with them decisively.”
General Musa also urged the media to avoid being a platform for terrorist propaganda. “Those guys want to use the media to send their message across. That is why it is dangerous not to agree to what they are saying,” he cautioned.
Despite the controversy, General Musa affirmed the military’s commitment to its operations, stressing that efforts to combat criminal elements would continue while minimizing civilian casualties. He noted that the presence of civilians in areas occupied by terrorists complicates operations but maintained that the military would strive to balance precision with effectiveness.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the CDS to join troops of Operation Fansan Yamma for a Christmas lunch, commending their dedication to ridding Sokoto State of banditry and terrorism.
As investigations into the airstrikes continue, the incident underscores the challenges of conducting military operations in areas with high civilian presence. The outcome of the probe is expected to provide clarity and address concerns over the loss of lives.
