The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has denied allegations that its recent airstrike in Zamfara State mistakenly targeted vigilantes instead of bandits. The incident, which occurred on June 2, 2025, in Maraya and Wabi villages, reportedly resulted in the deaths of 20 people and left many injured.
According to Amnesty International, the Nigerian government must investigate the airstrike, as this is not the first time civilians have been affected by military operations. Local sources claim that the airstrike was intended to help communities under attack by bandits, but mistakenly hit vigilantes who were defending their villages.
A politician from Zamfara, who chose to remain anonymous, confirmed that the military was responding to an emergency call from vigilantes under attack. However, the military aircraft mistakenly struck the vigilantes, killing seven instantly. Another eyewitness, a vigilante member, stated that the bandits had attacked their community with over 70 motorcycles, killing civilians and burning food supplies.
The Nigerian Air Force, however, insists that the airstrike successfully eliminated over 20 armed terrorists and destroyed 21 motorcycles used by the bandits. The Director of Public Relations and Information for NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, stated that intelligence confirmed the presence of bandits who had previously killed farmers and kidnapped civilians.
Despite the military’s claims, local residents continue to demand better security measures and more accurate targeting to prevent civilian casualties.
