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Separating facts from propaganda on alleged civilian casualties in Yankuzo, Zamfara
Separating facts from propaganda on alleged civilian casualties in Yankuzo, Zamfara
By: Zagazola Makama
In the aftermath of the 4 August precision airstrike in Yankuzo Ward, Tsafe LGA, a familiar and tired script began circulating, claims that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jets “bombed a civilian wedding” and killed innocents. It is a narrative so recklessly peddled, one wonders if the authors even bothered to look at what happened next.
Within hours of the strike, surviving members of Ado Allero’s gang the same men supposedly attending this “civilian” gathering, stormed Yankuzo and abducted its traditional ruler, Alhaji Babangida Kogo. Their reason? They suspected he provided intelligence for the strike that killed more than 30 armed terrorists and injured many more. The monarch was later released when they confirmed he had nothing to do with the strike, but the message was clear: the people at that “wedding” were not farmers and traders, they were bandits preparing for war.
If the gathering had truly been a harmless wedding of non-combatants, why would the immediate retaliation be the abduction of a monarch over alleged military collaboration? The logic collapses under its own weight.
Even more telling is what followed: Ado Allero deployed fighters to lay an ambush against troops moving to exploit the success of the strike. That encounter left one soldier dead and another wounded. Again, the so-called “wedding guests” if we follow the propagandists’ claims turned out to be well-armed, battle-ready militants on more than 10 motorcycles, mounting deliberate attacks on security forces. That is not the profile of civilians caught in crossfire; it is the textbook behaviour of a routed but still dangerous insurgent cell.
The strike hit exactly what it was intended to hit: armed combatants. No credible source not local residents, not field operatives, not even the so-called “eye witnesses” whispered about by detractors has produced verifiable evidence of civilian casualties. On the contrary, those closest to the scene confirm that the targets were militants.
So, where exactly are these supposed civilian casualties? Not one credible community source, medical facility, or independent observer has produced evidence of dead or injured non-combatants. On the contrary, residents of Yankuzo and surrounding areas have openly expressed relief at the neutralisation of the fighters who had been terrorising them. If the “civilian casualties” story had any substance, we would expect to see mourning families, burial records, or at the very least photographic evidence flooding the same channels pushing the accusation. The absence of any genuine civilian victim list, contrasted with the very visible armed reprisals by the terrorists, should embarrass anyone still pushing this hollow propaganda.
Those pushing the civilian casualty line must now answer the only question that matters: where are these so-called victims? Names? Families? Graves? Or are we meant to accept yet another recycled propaganda trope from those who have made a cottage industry out of dressing up armed terrorists as misunderstood locals?
Zagazola Makama is a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in the Lake Chad
Separating facts from propaganda on alleged civilian casualties in Yankuzo, Zamfara
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
By: Zagazola Makama
Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, Chief of Operations at the Naval Headquarters (NHQ), has died following a brief illness.
Rear Admiral Katagum, a highly respected officer of the Nigerian Navy, recently served at Defence Headquarters and was formerly the Chief of Naval Intelligence.
He was recently appointed Chief of Operations by the Chief of Naval Staff, a role in which he oversaw critical operational activities and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s maritime security.
During his distinguished career, Rear Admiral Katagum’s contributions to national security were immeasurable. He played a pivotal role in shaping operational strategies, strengthening intelligence capabilities, and mentoring generations of officers who would go on to emulate his professionalism and dedication.
His insight, foresight, and meticulous approach to operations ensured that the Nigerian Navy remained vigilant, formidable, and ready to defend the nation’s maritime interests. His contributions played a vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and enhancing the operational readiness of the Nigerian Navy.
The news of his death has sent ripples of grief through the Armed Forces, with his colleagues describing him as a symbol of courage, discipline, and service excellence. Senior naval officers have expressed profound sorrow over the loss of a visionary leader whose legacy will endure within the Navy.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, he will be remembered for his humility, his generosity of spirit, and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of those who served alongside him.
As we mourn this extraordinary officer, we celebrate a life dedicated to the service of Nigeria, a life marked by courage, honor, and excellence.
May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may the Almighty grant comfort to his family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of serving with him.
Nigerian Navy Chief of Operations, Rear Admiral Musa Katagum, dies after illness
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
By: Zagazola Makama
The Police Command in Kwara State has arrested 19 suspected bandits and cattle rustlers during a bush clearance operation around Ekati village, Lade.
Police sources said the operation, carried out in collaboration with Miyetti Allah vigilantes, led to the arrest of 10 suspects, including Mohammed Salihu, 25; Mohammadu Musa, 23; Abubakar Sani aka Siddi, 25; Yusuf Isah aka Lariya, 22; Mohammadu Ibrahim aka Iro, 21; Mohammadu Sani aka Kachalla Ruga, 65; Musa Ado aka Mandu, 65; Abubakar Adamu aka Buba, 26; Mohammadu Zangina, 25; and Abubakar Shaibu aka Jijji, 20.
Most of the suspects were reportedly from Zamfara State, while one hailed from Niger Republic and another from Katsina State.
Police said 370 cows and 58 goats were recovered as exhibits from the suspects.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, the command added.
Police arrest 19 suspected bandits, recover 370 cows, 58 goats in Kwara
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigeria Police Force in Akwa Ibom State have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and recovered a firearm during a tactical operation along waterways in the state.
Police sources said the operation was conducted at about 11:10 p.m. on Feb. 16 by a SWAT team following credible intelligence on the activities of a militant group identified as the “Blin Blin Marine Strike Force,” allegedly operating along the Uruan waterways and Itu waterfronts.
According to the sources, officers on a clearance mission at Ikot Ika waterfront encountered the suspects in a gun duel. During the exchange, one police inspector sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to hospital, where he is currently responding to treatment.
Two members of the group were neutralised during the encounter, while others reportedly escaped through the waterways with gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the suspects included a G3 assault rifle and four rounds of live ammunition.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the group was allegedly led by Ubong Effiong Archibong, also known as “Condiment,” who was on a police wanted list over alleged involvement in multiple kidnapping and violent crime incidents, including attacks on prominent individuals and security personnel.
The police said operations were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the gang and dismantle the remaining criminal network.
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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