By Our Correspondent
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has compensated families affected by the accidental airstrike in Sokoto State on December 25, 2024, which killed 13 civilians and injured eight others in Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa villages, Silame Local Government Area.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF’s Director of Public Relations, confirmed the payment in a statement on Sunday.
Representing the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, AVM Edward Gabkwet praised the Sokoto State government for fostering strong civil-military cooperation and commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s localised security measures, including the Sokoto State Community Guards Corps.
The airstrike, conducted under Operation Fasan Yamma based on intelligence reports of suspected terrorists, unintentionally affected civilians, a fact later confirmed through a thorough investigation following a petition in April 2025.
Aneke said civilian harm mitigation has remained a top priority since he assumed office on October 24, and the compensation underscores the NAF’s commitment to addressing unintended consequences of military operations.
