The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has ordered a thorough investigation into reports that airstrikes in Katsina State led to the deaths of civilians in the state.
According to reports, seven civilians, including six members of the same family, were accidentally killed on Saturday by airstrikes aimed at bandits in Yauni community, Zakka ward of the Safana Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement on Monday, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, described the allegations as “deeply troubling” and assured the public of the service’s commitment to uncovering the truth.
“The reports alleging civilian casualties following the airstrikes are deeply troubling. The NAF takes these concerns seriously and remains fully committed to uncovering the truth. While these claims are distressing, it is important to emphasise that they remain allegations until a comprehensive investigation is concluded.
“In response to these allegations, therefore, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has promptly ordered a thorough investigation to verify the claims and ensure appropriate action is taken based on the findings,”Akinboyewa stated.
He stated that the NAF operates under strict rules of engagement and internationally accepted standards.
“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,” Akinboyewa stated.
He urged the public to remain calm as the investigation unfolds, reiterating the Air Force’s dedication to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of innocent lives.
Speaking on the operation, Akinboyewa described it as successful, adding that the operation was launched to stop the bandits who had earlier attacked personnel from the Police Mobile Force and the Katsina State Community Watch Corps.
According to him, the bandits killed two PMF officers and four vigilantes.
He said, “The airstrike resulted in the neutralisation of several bandits and helped to repel the onslaught against Police Mobile Force and Katsina State Community Watch Corps personnel.