The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has dispatched a high-level investigative team to Zamfara State following reports of an accidental airstrike that resulted in civilian casualties. The incident, which occurred on Saturday in Kakindawa village, Maradun Local Government Area, reportedly killed 16 vigilantes on their way to assist a neighboring community under attack by bandits.
In a statement released on Monday, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) confirmed the deployment of the fact-finding team, led by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Coordination and Cooperation in the Civil-Military Relations Branch at NAF Headquarters. The team’s mandate includes gathering evidence, liaising with state and local officials, and engaging stakeholders to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.
NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, emphasized the force’s commitment to professionalism and civilian safety. “The CAS, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, is deeply concerned about the reported civilian casualties. This team will provide a comprehensive assessment to guide appropriate action,” Akinboyewa stated. He also reiterated the importance of public trust and assured Nigerians of continuous improvements in operational procedures to prevent such occurrences.
The accidental bombing has drawn responses from various quarters, including the Zamfara State Government and the All Progressives Congress in the state, both of which expressed condolences to the affected families. Local residents have called for increased caution in military operations to minimize collateral damage.
This incident follows a similar tragedy in December 2024, when an airstrike in Sokoto State, targeting Lakurawa terrorists, mistakenly hit two villages, killing at least 10 civilians. The NAF’s repeated mishaps have sparked public outcry and calls for accountability in military operations.
Meanwhile, as part of its Armed Forces Remembrance Day activities, the Nigerian Army has launched a free medical outreach in Sokoto State, targeting over 5,000 residents in underserved communities. The initiative aims to strengthen civil-military relations and provide much-needed relief to rural areas.
