By Ghazali Ibrahim
Zagazola Makama, a security expert, has criticised the recent airstrikes reportedly carried out by the United States military in Sokoto State, saying the operation missed its intended target and had no impact on insurgent groups operating in Nigeria.
The airstrikes, which were said to have taken place on Christmas night, sparked panic among residents after explosions were heard in parts of the state.
Videos that circulated widely on social media showed residents of Jabo community in Tambuwal Local Government Area fleeing as fire erupted at the site of one of the strikes.
As of the time of reporting, details of the operation remain unclear, with no official confirmation of casualties or damage linked to terrorist activity.
Reacting in a post on X, Makama said the bombs landed in a location with no known history of extremist presence. He described Jabo as a farming community and said there is no record of activities by Boko Haram, ISWAP, or ISIS in the area.
Makama noted that while international military assistance to Nigeria is welcome, accurate intelligence is crucial to ensure effectiveness. He added that jihadist groups are primarily active in the North-East, while insecurity in the North-West is largely driven by banditry rather than insurgency.
Despite his criticism of the location of the strike, the analyst said further international support could help deter criminal groups if properly targeted.
