Residents of Jabo town in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State have narrated frightening experiences following a late-night airstrike on Friday, saying many initially believed an aircraft had crashed due to the intensity of the explosion and flames.
A resident, Abubakar Shehu Jabo, who also serves as the Information Officer for Tambuwal LGA, said the incident occurred at about 10:30 p.m. He explained that the loud noise and the speed at which a burning object descended from the sky caused widespread panic.
“Because of the loud sound and the speed of the burning object, many of us thought it was an air crash,” he said. “It was only after we carefully moved closer that we realised it was not an aircraft but something entirely different.”
The Sarkin Fawan Jabo, Muhammadu Abubakar, expressed concern over the development, stressing that Jabo and neighbouring Bargini community have a long history of peace and have never been known to harbour terrorists or bandits.
According to him, the only major security incident ever recorded in the area was a kidnapping case in 2000, noting that the communities have remained calm and law-abiding ever since.
“We do not harbour terrorists or bandits in our communities. This place has been peaceful for a very long time, which makes this incident deeply disturbing to us,” he said.
A resident of Bargini village described the explosion as devastating, saying families who were preparing to sleep were jolted by a thunderous blast. The explosion was followed by thick smoke and flames, forcing villagers to flee their homes in fear.
The unexpected airstrike has sparked concern not only within Sokoto State but across the country, with many Nigerians questioning the origin, purpose and implications of such an operation in an area previously regarded as secure.
The incident has renewed calls for improved intelligence coordination, surveillance, and clear security communication to prevent panic and reassure citizens of their safety.
Residents Describe Panic, Confusion After Night-Time Airstrike in Sokoto Community
