Katsina Airstrike: Airforce Probes Civilian Casualties

Airforce Scrutinizes Katsina Airstrike After Civilian Deaths

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has initiated an investigation into an airstrike conducted in Katsina State that reportedly resulted in civilian casualties. The incident occurred on February 15, 2025, in the Safana area, following an attack by armed bandits on a Police Mobile Force base in Zakka village, which led to the deaths of two police officers and four community vigilantes. In response, NAF deployed air assets targeting the assailants.

However, reports have emerged alleging that the airstrike inadvertently struck a cluster of huts on the outskirts of Zakka village, leading to civilian fatalities. Local sources claim that at least six members of a family were among those killed.

Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF’s spokesperson, stated that the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has ordered a thorough investigation to verify the alleged civilian casualties and ensure appropriate action based on the findings.

This incident is part of a concerning pattern of military airstrikes in Nigeria resulting in unintended civilian deaths. In December 2023, an airstrike in Kaduna State mistakenly targeted a religious gathering, killing over 80 civilians. Similarly, in January 2025, an airstrike in Zamfara State led to civilian casualties. According to SBM Intelligence, more than 400 civilians have lost their lives due to such incidents since 2017.

Amnesty International has condemned the recent airstrike in Katsina, describing it as a human rights violation and calling for an independent investigation. The organization reported at least 10 civilian deaths in the incident.