Katsina airstrike: NAF commences probe on alleged civilian casualty
Nigerian Air Force NAF
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigerian Air Force has instituted a probe into alleged civilian casualties due to the February 15 airstrike in Katsina State State.
NAF’s spokesman, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, February 17.
He said the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has ordered a comprehensive investigation to verify the alleged civilian casualty to ensure appropriate action is taken based on the findings.
A military airstrike in Katsina was said to have resulted in the deaths of six civilians in the Yauni community in the Safana Local Government Area of the State.
According to accounts by members of the community, the airstrike occurred after a gun duel between security personnel and bandits, which had planned to attack voters in Zakka village during the local government election on Saturday.
Security agents, however, intervened, which led to an exchange of fire, and subsequently, a military fighter jet dropped a bomb on the Yauni community.
However, the NAF’s spokesman said the NAF takes the allegation with utmost seriousness, and “remains fully committed to uncovering the truth.
He said, “The reports alleging civilian casualties following the airstrikes are deeply troubling. While these claims are distressing, it is important to emphasise that they remain allegations until a comprehensive investigation is concluded.
“As a professional force dedicated to the protection of Nigeria and its people, the NAF operates under strict rules of engagement and adheres to internationally accepted standards in all its operations. The NAF Ethos guarantees that our operations are always geared towards ensuring the well-being of our nation and citizens.”
The NAF’s spokesman further explained that the strike was conducted in response to intelligence indicating a terrorist attack on a Police Mobioe Force location in the community, where bandits had already killed two Police Mobile Force personnel and four vigilantes.
“The bandits were confirmed to be taking refuge on the nearby Yauni Hill. In a swift and decisive response, NAF air assets were deployed for an air interdiction mission. Upon arrival, the targets were identified and engaged,” he added.
