The Sokoto bombing incident has led to conflicting reports after military airstrikes mistakenly killed villagers in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities. While the Nigerian Air Force claims secondary explosions caused the deaths, locals argue the casualties were innocent farmers, demanding justice and a thorough investigation.
The Sokoto bombing incident sparked controversy after military airstrikes targeted what was believed to be a terrorist base in the Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State. However, residents of Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities, where the strike occurred, have rejected the military's claim that the victims were terrorists. Reports indicate that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted an airstrike on a terrorist hideout linked to the Lakurawa group but dropped explosives that killed 10 villagers, destroyed food silos, and killed livestock.
While the NAF confirmed the airstrike was based on credible intelligence, some community members, including local government chairman Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad, argue that the victims were farmers with no links to terrorism. Eyewitnesses have provided accounts of the attack, with many describing how the bombing occurred early in the morning, leaving residents in shock. One villager recounted how a bomb hit their village while others were praying at the mosque, resulting in fires and fatalities.
In response, the Defence Headquarters clarified that the deaths were due to secondary explosions triggered by the destruction of the terrorist base, not the airstrike itself. However, local officials and residents insist the military's actions directly caused the deaths and are demanding a full investigation. The controversy continues as the community calls for justice and compensation.
