On January 11, 2025, a Nigerian military airstrike in Tungar Kara, a village in Maradun Local Government Area (LGA) of Zamfara State, northwest Nigeria, mistakenly killed at least 20 civilians, including members of a local vigilante group. The victims were part of the Zamfara Community Protection Guard, a civilian security outfit assisting in repelling attacks by armed groups known as bandits. The airstrike occurred while the vigilantes were retrieving livestock stolen by fleeing assailants. Residents reported up to 20 bodies and numerous injuries, with some victims still unaccounted for.
The Nigerian Air Force had targeted militants in the Zurmi and Maradun areas, regions plagued by violent banditry and kidnappings. However, the operation led to the tragic deaths of civilians mistakenly identified as bandits. The air force acknowledged the incident and expressed “grave concern” over the loss of civilian lives. A comprehensive investigation was promised, though similar past incidents have often lacked transparency and accountability.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of civilian casualties resulting from Nigerian military airstrikes. Since 2017, such operations have led to approximately 400 civilian deaths, according to research by SBM Intelligence. In December 2023, over 80 civilians were killed during a religious gathering in Kaduna State, and in December 2024, an airstrike in Sokoto State killed at least 10 people. These recurring tragedies highlight systemic issues in intelligence gathering, operational protocols, and oversight within Nigeria’s military operations.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have condemned these airstrikes as unlawful and reckless. They have called for immediate and impartial investigations and for the Nigerian authorities to hold perpetrators accountable. The consistent failure to address these issues has raised concerns about impunity and the safety of civilians in conflict zones.
The January 2025 airstrike in Tungar Kara underscores the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s military operations, particularly in distinguishing between combatants and civilians. Improved intelligence-sharing, better training for military personnel, and enhanced collaboration with local communities are essential to prevent further loss of innocent lives. Without significant changes, such tragic incidents are likely to continue, undermining the safety and trust of the civilian population.
