Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports circulating in parts of the media alleging civilian casualties during a recent military operation in Zamfara State, describing the figures being shared as unverified and misleading.
According to the military in a statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the joint air and land operation carried out by troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA on May 10 targeted what it called a confirmed gathering of terrorist leaders in Tumfa Village, Shinkafi Local Government Area.
The Defence Headquarters says the location was identified through what it described as credible multi-source intelligence as a coordination base for planned attacks on communities across the North-West.
The statement explained that because the mission involved an air interdiction strike, it was not immediately possible to determine the exact number of casualties on ground. However, a post-operation Battle Damage Assessment reportedly confirmed that several terrorists were neutralised.
The military also rejected allegations of civilian deaths being circulated by some media platforms and international human rights groups, insisting that no credible evidence of civilian casualties has been established through official assessments or independent verification.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the target was occupied solely by armed non-state actors considered a direct threat to civilian lives.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria further stated that all operations are conducted under strict Rules of Engagement and in line with International Humanitarian Law, including measures aimed at protecting civilians.
It added that ground troops are still carrying out clearance and exploitation operations in the area, while urging the public to rely only on information released through official Defence Headquarters channels.