CONTROVERSY TRAILS KADUNA AIRSTRIKE AS RESIDENTS, NAF DISAGREE ON CASUALTIES
A recent airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Kaduna State has sparked controversy, with residents and the military disagreeing over the number of casualties. The incident occurred on Friday in Jika da Kolo village, Yadin Kidandan, Giwa Local Government Area, leaving scores dead .
According to reports, the airstrike was intended to target terrorists, but residents claim many civilians were caught in the crossfire. The NAF, however, maintains that the bombing targeted terrorists, citing intelligence that they were planning to attack nearby communities .
Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, NAF's Director of Public Relations and Information, stated, "The air component of Operation Whirl Punch carried out an air strike on a location in Yadin Kaura, Giwa LGA, where terrorists were gathered." However, residents dispute this claim, alleging that civilians were among those killed and injured.
The Kaduna State Government has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation. Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, urged residents to remain calm and provide relevant information to security agencies.
This incident is not an isolated one, as the NAF has been involved in previous airstrikes resulting in civilian casualties. In December 2023, an airstrike in Tudun Biri killed 85 civilians and injured 66 . The recurring incidents have raised concerns about the effectiveness of Nigeria's counter-terrorism strategy and the need for improved precision in military operations.
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