Examining the Nigerian Military’s Civilian Casualties in Airstrikes
The Nigerian military’s airstrikes have caused civilian casualties, with over 30 deaths reported in recent months due to mistaken targeting. While the military claims to target armed groups, shortcomings in intelligence and operational oversight have led to numerous tragedies, prompting calls for greater accountability and reforms. Experts advocate for improved training and oversight, stressing the urgent need for the military to protect local communities and evaluate the effectiveness of their counterinsurgency strategies.
In recent months, the Nigerian military has been implicated in several tragic airstrikes that inadvertently resulted in civilian casualties, raising serious concerns about their operational protocols. Notably, in December 2024, an airstrike in Sokoto state killed ten civilians. Subsequent incidents saw at least 16 deaths in January in Zamfara state and six more in February in Katsina, all attributed to mistaken identities as armed groups. The military’s assertion that these strikes target criminal gangs does not mitigate the humanitarian toll experienced by local communities.
The Nigerian Armed Forces have undertaken numerous airstrikes against insurgents, leading to the deaths of hundreds of civilians over time. Past airstrikes have demonstrated a troubling pattern of errors, often resulting in mistakenly targeting local vigilante groups and innocent farmers. Although the military sometimes acknowledges these incidents and cites operational errors, the lack of accountability raises pressing questions about their commitment to minimizing civilian casualties.
Experts attribute these continuous misidentifications primarily to failures in intelligence gathering and oversight. Instances such as the deadly airstrike in Tudunburi reflect the concerning reliance on aerial drones without adequate training or operational protocols. Despite growing access to drone technology, the Nigerian military lacks the necessary frameworks to ensure precise targeting. Reports indicate that the military must improve its intelligence capabilities and oversight mechanisms to mitigate civilian harm.
The international community, particularly countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, are urged to assist Nigeria in evolving its military forces into one that values human rights and accountability. Experts argue that instead of imposing sanctions, collaborative training and support would better enhance operational standards. However, accountability for military personnel involved in past instances remains sparse, with investigations often leading to internal reviews rather than prosecutions.
Some military officials, including Maj-Gen Edward Buba, have acknowledged the challenges posed by combat conditions while emphasizing the need for improved military protocols. Despite repeated assertions of commitment to justice, the prevailing culture of impunity within the military undermines any progress made regarding accountability. Furthermore, discussions among community leaders emphasize the need for genuine reparations for victims impacted by military operations.
In conclusion, the Nigerian military must address the significant ethical and operational challenges that result in civilian casualties. Establishing robust guidelines for conducting airstrikes, improving intelligence and training protocols, and ensuring accountability will be critical to protecting innocent lives. As experts have pointed out, if the military cannot effectively manage airstrikes, it raises the question of their overall effectiveness in combating insurgency, potentially necessitating a re-evaluation of their strategies.
The Nigerian military faces serious challenges with operational oversight and accountability, resulting in repeated civilian casualties during airstrikes. Improved intelligence, training, and accountability are essential for preventing further tragedies. The role of international partners in fostering a human rights-oriented military framework is crucial in ensuring appropriate actions are taken to protect innocent lives. The efficacy of airstrikes as a counterinsurgency tactic remains a significant concern.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
