Zamfara Governor Lawal Receives NAF Fact-Finding Team Following Airstrike

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara received a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fact-finding team after an alleged missed airstrike on a community in the state.
 
This is contained in a statement released by Air Vice Marshal Olusola F. Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, January 14, 2025.
 
According to the statement, the team was led by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Coordination and Cooperation of the Civil-Military Relations Branch.
 
The team was dispatched by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, to investigate the reported incidence of civilian casualties in a recent NAF airstrike in Zamfara State. 
 
During the meeting, Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet emphasised the NAF’s commitment to professionalism and transparency in all operations, highlighting the service’s deep respect for the life and well-being of every Nigerian.
 
“The team’s mission is to conduct a thorough and objective investigation into the reported incident,” stated Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet.
 
Governor Lawal reaffirmed his support for the NAF in its fight against banditry, acknowledging that while collateral damage is regrettable, it is often an unintended consequence of such operations.
 
“I understand that this incident was not a deliberate act,” Governor Lawal stated. 
 
Following the meeting, the team proceeded to Tungar Kara, the site of the airstrikes, for an on-the-spot assessment.
 
The gathered data and information will be crucial in enhancing the NAF’s capacity to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure during counterinsurgency operations.