- Abubakar urged members of the public to disregard any information that did not emanate from the military to prevent panic
There is no iota of truth in reports that many innocent people were killed during an air onslaught on terrorists’ hideout in Sokoto State, the military has said.
Reports had filtered through on Wednesday that the military accidently bombed two communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The Press Secretary to the Sokoto State Governor, Abubakar Bawa, confirmed that the military fighter jets killed at least ten civilians.
Reacting to the reports, the Joint Task Force North West Operation Fansan Yamma stated that its air strikes didn’t kill any innocent locals but criminal elements.
In a statement by Lt. Col Abdullahi Abubakar, spokesman for the Joint Task Force, said the air strikes in Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities hit associates of the Lakurawa terrorist group.
Abubakar urged members of the public to disregard any information that did not emanate from the military to prevent panic.
He 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.
“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”.