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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned the killing of 16 civilians in Zamfara State following a military airstrike that appears to have mistakenly targeted them as criminal gangs.
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In a statement issued yesterday, the group’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described the incident as “one accidental mistake too many.”
According to residents, the victims were members of local vigilante groups and civilians who were defending themselves against armed gangs notorious for kidnapping for ransom.
The airstrikes targeted militant groups in the Zurmi and Maradun areas.
HURIWA called for greater attention to detail and the use of target-specific drone technology to minimise collateral damage in complex terrains like Zamfara.
While commending the armed forces for their efforts to combat terrorism and restore stability, Onwubiko urged caution to avoid further civilian casualties. “We urge combatants to do everything in their power to prevent avoidable killings of innocent civilians,” he added.
