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Ladan Salihu, the former Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), has condemned the airstrike conducted by the United States on Christmas night in Jabo village, Sokoto State, stating that it missed its intended target and lacked accuracy.
On December 25, the US executed several airstrikes targeting ISIS fighters in Sokoto, situated in north-west Nigeria.
The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) later clarified on X that the operation was conducted in collaboration with the Nigerian government.
AFRICOM asserted that the strike demonstrated the capability of the US military and its commitment to combatting terrorist threats both domestically and abroad.
However, Salihu provided a contrasting account in a post on X, mentioning that he spoke directly with Bashar Isah Jabo, a member of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, who visited the impacted area shortly after the strike.
The lawmaker reported that the missiles landed in an open field approximately 300 meters away from a local hospital. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities occurred as a result of the incident.
Salihu emphasized that Jabo village had not witnessed any terrorist activities or the presence of ISWAP throughout 2025. He noted that there were no records of conflicts between farmers and herders in the region.
He elaborated that villagers discovered missile fragments near a large crater, but there was no damage to homes or loss of life.
Salihu questioned the rationale behind the strike, suggesting it was aimed more at generating headlines than at addressing actual threats.
While he endorsed cooperation in the fight against terrorism, he insisted that attacks should concentrate on known terrorist leaders and their strongholds.
He urged Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters to investigate the incident and provide a transparent report to the public.
Salihu also expressed his relief that the missiles did not strike the hospital or endanger innocent residents of Jabo village.
“I just spoke with Hon Sarkin Yaki Jabo, a member of the Sokoto State Assembly, who visited Jabo after the strike at 10:30 PM last night. The US strike in Jabo near Tambuwal was not a precision strike. There were no casualties. Missiles landed in an open field 300 meters away from a local hospital,” he stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the US airstrike in Jabo village?
The US airstrike aimed to target ISIS fighters in Sokoto, Nigeria, but it has been criticized for its lack of accuracy and effectiveness.
Were there any casualties as a result of the airstrike?
No, there were no casualties reported from the airstrike; missiles landed in an open field, away from populated areas.
What actions did Ladan Salihu call for following the airstrike?
Ladan Salihu called for an investigation by Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters and urged for more precise targeting in future operations against terrorism.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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