Military clarifies Sokoto airstrike reports, says operations guided by intelligence efforts
The Joint Task Force North West, under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, has addressed concerns about a recent military airstrike in Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State, clarifying that the operation targeted terrorist elements and not civilian structures.
In a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi, Coordinator of the Joint Media Coordination Centre, the Task Force emphasised that all operations were guided by extensive intelligence and reconnaissance efforts.
He said these measures were designed to ensure precision and protect civilian lives, especially in actions against groups like the Lakurawa terrorist organization.
The Task Force called on the public to rely on verified information to avoid misinformation and unnecessary panic.
The statement cautioned against disinformation campaigns by terrorist groups, which aim to discredit military successes and sow doubt in the ongoing fight against terrorism and banditry.
According to the military, the areas targeted near Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa were confirmed to be associated with the Lakurawa group, reinforcing the justification for the strikes.
The Joint Task Force reiterated its commitment to safeguarding civilians while pursuing decisive action against threats to national security.
The statement read: “The Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma has addressed recent reports concerning a military fighter jet allegedly bombing civilian structures in the Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
“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.
“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.”
ABUBAKAR ABDULLAHI
Lieutenant Colonel
Coordinator Joint Media Coordination Centre
Operation Fansan Yamma
25 December 2024
