The peaceful Kurigi community in Niger State was thrown into chaos on Sunday when a military helicopter reportedly opened fire on residents during an operation against bandits.
Two people were killed, and six others injured, according to eyewitnesses.
Locals described how the aircraft hovered above the village for several minutes before gunfire began, striking homes and terrifying families.
The suddenness of the attack left many fleeing for safety, with large numbers reportedly moving to nearby Bangi town and other secure locations.
Residents Speak Out About the Incident
Suleiman Sanusi, a resident, spoke on the incident, describing it as “surprising and unprovoked.”
He said the airstrike has heightened fear throughout the community and called for urgent intervention.
“People are scared to stay in their homes,” he said, “and we need the authorities to step in, investigate what happened, and provide medical care to those injured.”
Other locals expressed similar concerns, emphasizing the need for accountability and reassurance that such incidents will not recur.
Nigerian Air Force Responds
In response to the reports, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), said the incident is being taken seriously.
Speaking yesterday, he emphasized that the NAF’s investigation aligns with its commitment to accountability, responsibility, and transparency.
Ejodame assured Nigerians that the Air Force is prepared to take responsibility if necessary, implement corrective measures, and continue safeguarding civilian lives while conducting operations.
Civilian Protection at the Forefront
In an official statement titled “NAF Reaffirms Commitment to Civilian Protection Following Reported Incident in Kurigi, Niger State,” the Air Force acknowledged the seriousness of the reported casualties.
It stressed that civilian protection remains a central focus of its operations.
Over the past year, the NAF has implemented its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response – Action Plan (CHMR-AP), designed to reduce harm to civilians through improved training, procedures, and safeguards during all operations.
Investigation Team Activated
Following the incident, the NAF has launched a Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation (CHAI) team to conduct a thorough and immediate investigation.
The team’s work will focus on establishing the facts, identifying any lapses, and recommending steps to prevent future incidents.
Ejodame reiterated that the Air Force will act with professionalism and restraint, keeping the safety of non-combatants a top priority while continuing its mandate to protect the nation.
Looking Ahead
For residents of Kurigi, the immediate hope is for clarity, accountability, and support for those affected.
For the NAF, the challenge lies in ensuring that military operations against bandits do not come at the expense of civilian lives—a balance that has become increasingly critical in conflict-affected regions of Niger State.
The investigation will likely shape both public perception and operational protocols, as communities and authorities await answers about what exactly transpired on that fateful Sunday.
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