NAF Airstrike Kills 7 Vigilantes in Niger State Incident

On September 10, 2026, a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jet bombed a camp of local vigilantes, known as Hunters, in Kukoki-Bassa, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State. The attack resulted in the deaths of seven vigilante members and injuries to eight others.

The vigilantes were convened to strategize against reported bandit movements when the bomb was dropped. Ayuba Umar Kamas, the commander of the vigilante group, reported that three aircraft were seen flying over the area before one released the bomb.

The deceased included four members from Kukoki, one from Bassa, and three from Matuku. Among the injured, some suffered severe injuries, including the loss of both legs, and were initially transported by motorcycle to IBB Specialist Hospital in Minna for medical attention.

Kamas expressed confusion over the incident, noting that a convoy of suspected bandits had passed through the same area without being targeted. Community sources suggested that the Air Force may have acted on faulty intelligence regarding terrorist activity.