Nigerian Military Denies Civilian Deaths in Airstrikes

The Defence Headquarters of the Nigerian military, represented by Major General Michael Onoja, denied reports of civilian deaths resulting from airstrikes conducted in the Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The military asserted that the operations, which took place on May 10, 2026, were aimed at armed bandits based on credible intelligence indicating their convergence in the area.

The airstrikes targeted specific locations, including Katerma, Bokko, Kusasu, and Kuduru villages, resulting in the death of approximately 70 bandits. The military emphasized that the operations were meticulously planned and executed, and they urged the media and public to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could undermine military morale.

The statement followed viral claims of civilian casualties during the airstrikes, which the military categorically rejected, asserting that the strikes were focused on identified terrorist enclaves.