The Nigerian Air Force has been reported to have caused the deaths of over 100 civilians in a botched operation aimed at targeting terrorists, despite prior offers of assistance from the United States.
This airstrike reportedly hit a remote market near Borno Yobe, a place known to be frequented by Boko Haram militants. Intelligence suggests that these terrorist groups were gathering nearby to plan attacks on local communities, as noted by the Associated Press.
While the Associated Press claims at least 100 civilians were killed, including children, Reuters suggests the number might rise to as high as 200.
In contrast, a spokesperson for the presidency has claimed that those killed were “terrorists, their logistics operators, informants and collaborators,” asserting that the portrayal of victims as civilians is “inaccurate.” According to the spokesperson, the market was a valid military target, having been used by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists for logistical purposes.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian military described the incident as a “precision airstrike” aimed at known terrorist positions, citing unusual activities in the area leading to what they term the neutralization of “a number of terrorists.”
Isa Sanusi, Nigeria director for Amnesty International, responded by stating that evidence exists showing children were among those killed, having spoken to victims and hospitals dealing with the aftermath.
Since 2017, it is estimated that at least 500 civilians have died in similar incidents. This is part of a broader trend that has resulted in the deaths of approximately 52,250 Nigerian Christians due to violence since 2009, according to Vatican News, which also noted that many moderate Muslims have been victims.
Although President Trump is currently focused on operations in Iran, he has taken a keen interest in Nigeria, particularly following its designation as a country of special concern last October, due to its insufficient action against those attacking Christians. He has mentioned a potential U.S. military response to these terrorist threats.
In November, Trump publicly condemned Nigeria for the killing of Christians and threatened to halt all trade unless the situation improved. He stated that any military action would be swift and severe.
Additionally, in February, 200 U.S. troops were deployed to assist in intelligence gathering. Recently, Sam Brownback, a former senator and Special Envoy for International Religious Freedom, urged the Nigerian government to seek U.S. support, warning that continued inaction might lead to division within the country.
Despite accurate intelligence, attacks persist, with dozens reported killed over the Easter period. Another assault occurred on Sunday, which left eight dead, according to Pastor Ezekiel Dacomo, a regional leader of the Church of Christ of the Nations.
Nigeria’s presidential office has not responded to inquiries regarding the incident.
