By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports alleging civilian casualties following recent aerial interdiction operations in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, insisting that the strikes were precision-guided and targeted exclusively at confirmed terrorist locations.
The military explained that the air operations were launched after intelligence reports indicated a convergence of armed bandits at Lukupe Village on 9 May 2026, prompting coordinated strikes on identified locations including Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu and Kuduru villages between the night of 10 May and the early hours of Sunday.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that the Nigerian Army UAV Command conducted the multiple airstrikes based on credible and actionable intelligence on terrorist enclaves within the area.
According to Onoja, the operation achieved significant success, with about 70 bandits neutralised in Kusasu alone, while surviving elements were observed regrouping and moving on motorcycles towards Zango after the strikes.
He added that further intelligence indicated movement of armed groups in Bokko and Kopa axis, suggesting attempts by remnants of the terrorists to either retreat or regroup for possible attacks on communities and security installations.
Onoja maintained that contrary to claims in some quarters, the affected communities had reportedly relocated to Sarkin Pawa before the operation, thereby significantly reducing the possibility of civilian presence in the strike areas.
He stressed that post-operation assessments confirmed the accuracy and effectiveness of the strikes, which were directed solely at identified terrorist positions.
The DHQ, however, stated that relevant military formations have been directed to verify any claims of civilian casualties, if any, as part of routine post-operation checks.
It also urged members of the public and the media to exercise caution and avoid circulating unverified reports that could undermine ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to sustained operations against armed groups, noting that all actions are carried out in strict adherence to rules of engagement and international humanitarian standards.
