In a tragic series of events spanning seven years, more than 426 innocent civilians have lost their lives due to military air strikes targeting bandits and terrorists that went awry. Solomon Odeniyi explores the heartbreaking stories of victims’ families and survivors struggling for justice, a pursuit that has proven elusive.
Okotta Samiala, still grappling with the loss of 11 siblings in a mistaken air strike by the Nigerian Air Force in Doma Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, on January 24, 2023, voices his frustration at the lack of justice. Efforts, including engagement with the media, have yielded no results.
Despite investigations by Human Rights Watch, Reuters, Amnesty International, and others indicting the Nigerian Air Force, it refuses to acknowledge the operational error. The military claims the victims were terrorists planning an attack, a statement vehemently denied by Samiala, who emphasizes that his siblings were pastoralists.
Similar stories emerge from Rabiu Umaru in Zamfara State, where a military air strike in Mutumji community claimed numerous lives. Umaru laments the absence of government compensation or support for the affected families.
The article details a grim history of accidental air strikes in Nigeria over the last seven years, highlighting instances where civilians were mistakenly targeted. Despite promises of investigations and accountability, the victims’ families continue to face neglect and lack of compensation.
The latest incident in Kaduna on December 3, involving a drone strike during a religious celebration, has sparked public outrage. President Bola Tinubu demands a thorough probe, and the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, assures that those responsible will face consequences.
The article raises concerns about Nigeria’s compliance with International Humanitarian Law, citing the recurrent mistakes and human rights abuses by the military. The United States, citing human rights concerns, has declined weapon sales to Nigeria for counter-insurgency efforts.
Despite numerous inquiries after accidental strikes, the article notes a lack of accountability and justice for victims, leading to a culture of impunity within the military. International human rights organizations call for a transparent investigation and accountability for past incidents.
The piece concludes by emphasizing the need for victims’ families and survivors to pursue legal action for justice. It criticizes the government’s failure to punish those responsible for past incidents, contributing to the recurring problem of accidental air strikes in the country.