‘We Thought It Was a Plane Crash,’ Sokoto Residents Recall U.S. Airstrike Scare

Residents of Jabo town in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State have shared frightening accounts of a U.S. airstrike late on Friday night, saying many initially believed a plane had crashed due to the intensity of the explosion.

Abubakar Shehu Jabo, a resident and Information Officer of Tambuwal LGA, said the incident happened at about 10:30 pm, throwing the community into confusion and fear.

“Because of the loud noise and the speed at which the burning object descended, many of us thought it was an air crash,” he said.
“But when we cautiously moved closer, we realised it was not an aircraft but something else entirely.”

The Sarkin Fawan Jabo, Muhammadu Abubakar, stressed that Jabo and neighbouring Bargini communities have a long history of peaceful coexistence and have never served as havens for terrorists or bandits.

He recalled that the only notable security incident in the area was a kidnapping in the year 2000, adding that the community has remained calm ever since.

“We do not harbor terrorists or bandits in our communities. This place has been calm and peaceful for a very long time, which makes this incident even more disturbing,” he said.

A resident of Bargini village described the blast as terrifying, noting that families were preparing to sleep when a deafening explosion shook the area, followed by thick smoke and flames that forced villagers to flee in panic.

The unexpected strike has sparked concern beyond Sokoto State, with Nigerians questioning the circumstances, purpose and wider implications of such military operations in areas previously considered secure.

The incident has also highlighted the need for improved intelligence coordination, clear communication, and stronger security assurances to prevent public panic and safeguard civilians.

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