Amid growing public concern over the conduct and consequences of recent counter-terrorism operations, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on the Nigerian Government to offer clear and detailed explanations on the airstrikes carried out against suspected terrorist hideouts in Sokoto and Kwara states.
The Islamic human rights organisation said while it supports decisive action against terrorist groups, such operations must be carried out with utmost care to avoid civilian casualties and destruction of private property.
In a statement issued by its Executive Director, Ishaq Akintola, MURIC noted that reports from affected communities raised questions about the extent of damage caused by the strikes and whether non-combatants were impacted. The group stressed that transparency was essential to maintain public trust and prevent further hardship for innocent citizens.
According to MURIC, preliminary accounts suggested that one of the strikes in Sokoto State may have affected farmlands, while another in Kwara State allegedly led to the destruction of residential buildings. The organisation said such outcomes, if confirmed, would worsen the economic and social burden on already vulnerable communities.
MURIC called on the Nigerian Government to investigate the incidents thoroughly, publish the findings, and ensure prompt compensation for any civilians whose lives or livelihoods were affected. It emphasised that the fight against terrorism should not result in avoidable suffering for law-abiding Nigerians.
The group reaffirmed its support for international cooperation in tackling insecurity but cautioned that all counter-terrorism efforts must respect human rights and protect both Muslim and Christian civilians alike.
MURIC also urged security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve targeting accuracy in future operations to ensure that military actions remain focused strictly on terrorist elements.
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