Nigerian Airforce finally admits ‘erroneously’ bombing, killing villagers in Yobe

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Nigerian Airforce fighter jet missing in Borno

The Nigeria Air Force has admitted carrying out the bombing at Buhari village in Yunusari Local Government of Yobe State which led to the death of 10 people and over 20 hospitalised.

The airforce had denied responsibility for the bombing on Wednesday but less 24 hours later, it admitted carrying out the bombing.

Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the spokesman of the airforce said that following intelligence on Boko Haram/ISWAP movements along the Kamadougou Yobe River line, an aircraft from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai was detailed to respond to the suspected terrorist activities in the area along the Nigeria/Niger border at about 0600hrs on 15 September 2021.

“The aircraft while operating South of Kanama observed suspicious movement consistent with Boko Haram terrorists behaviour whenever a Jet aircraft is overhead.

“Accordingly, the pilot fired some probing shots. It is important to state that the area is well known for continuous Boko Haram /ISWAP activities.

“Unfortunately reports reaching Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters alleged that some civilians were erroneously killed while others were injured.

“Initial release denying the involvement of NAF aircraft was based on the first report available to the Air Component which was subsequently forwarded to NAF headquarters that civilians were bombed as the aircraft detailed for the mission was not carrying bombs.

“Therefore a Board of Inquiry has been set up to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the incident.”