Nigerian army drone strike error kills civilians


In northwestern Nigeria, a village in Kaduna State fell victim to an unintended army drone strike during celebrations of a Muslim festival, resulting in the tragic deaths of numerous civilians, as reported by local authorities, military officials, and residents on Monday.

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The Nigerian armed forces frequently employ airstrikes in their efforts against “bandit militias” in various regions, particularly the northwest and northeast, where jihadist conflicts have persisted for over a decade.

While the army did not disclose specific details or casualty numbers regarding the incident in Tudun Biri village on Sunday, residents claimed that dozens were killed and injured. Local officials also confirmed fatalities.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State expressed deep regret, stating that Muslim worshippers observing Maulud were mistakenly targeted during a military drone operation aimed at terrorists and bandits. In response, he ordered a thorough investigation into the incident.

Resident Idris Dahiru, who lost relatives in the strike, mentioned that 85 people were buried as a result of the bomb attack, and more than 60 injured individuals were undergoing treatment. He recounted the harrowing experience of rushing to assist those affected by the initial bomb, only for a second bomb to be dropped.

Husseini Ibrahim, another resident, shared the devastating news of losing 13 members of his immediate family, including children. The victims were laid to rest, and images purportedly showing the bodies were circulated, although their authenticity could not be immediately verified.

Dozens of wounded individuals were transported to a teaching hospital in Kaduna, according to state security commissioner Samuel Aruwan, who acknowledged the loss of several citizens but did not provide a specific toll.

The army described the incident as a routine mission against militants that inadvertently impacted members of the community. The tragic event follows a pattern of military actions causing civilian casualties, highlighting the challenges and complexities of counter-insurgency operations in the region.

The northwest of Nigeria has been plagued by the activities of militia groups referred to as “bandits,” who operate from remote bases, conducting raids on villages for loot and kidnapping residents for ransom. In the northeast, jihadists continue to pose a threat despite territorial losses.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has prioritized addressing insecurity since taking office in May, aiming to attract foreign investment to Nigeria. However, unintended civilian casualties from military operations, such as drone strikes, have occurred in the past, underscoring the difficulties in conducting precise operations in densely populated areas.

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