Wednesday, June 17, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Sokoto gov’t says no civilian casualty in U.S. strike

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From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Government on Thursday confirmed that a joint airstrike carried out by the Nigerian military in collaboration with the United States targeted terrorist positions in Tangaza Local Government Area, saying no civilian casualties were recorded during the operation.

The confirmation came amid heightened public concern following reports of unusual objects found near Jabo town in Tambuwal Local Government Area, which residents feared might be linked to the military action.

In a statement issued by the Director-General, Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa, the state government said preliminary information from security agencies indicated that the operation was precise and did not harm civilians in either Tangaza or Jabo.

According to the statement, the full impact of the airstrike could not be immediately determined, as authorities were still awaiting a comprehensive assessment from the joint Nigeria–US military operations.

“The circumstances of the objects found in a location near Jabo Town, Tambuwal Local Government Area, could not be immediately explained, as the outcome of analysis by Nigeria/US military authorities is being awaited, adding that there was no civilian casualty recorded in Jabo as well.

The state government described the joint operation as part of broader efforts to curb terrorism and cross-border crimes that have continued to threaten communities in parts of Sokoto State.

“Sokoto State welcomes any collaboration between Nigeria and all relevant global stakeholders aimed at curbing the menace of terrorism and cross-border crimes in the state,” the statement noted.

“The ongoing operations are geared towards securing the state and ensuring the protection of lives and property of the citizenry.”

The government also highlighted its support for security agencies, noting that over the past two years it has consistently provided equipment and other assistance to strengthen the fight against banditry and terrorism across the state.

As security operations continue, the state government urged residents of affected areas to cooperate with both federal and state authorities by sharing credible information with security agencies to help sustain the push for lasting peace.

It also called on citizens to remain calm and prayerful. “Residents are encouraged to continue to pray to Almighty Allah to assist our security agencies to defeat criminals in the state and the country at large,” the statement said.

The government said further updates would be provided once official assessments from the joint military authorities are concluded, reassuring residents that the protection of civilian lives remains a top priority.