A military airstrike on Tumfa market in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State has reportedly killed more than 100 people, with conflicting accounts emerging over whether the victims were civilians, armed bandits, or both.
Residents said at least 117 people died in the Sunday operation, which targeted the market area believed to be under the influence of armed groups. Several others were injured and taken to nearby hospitals in Zurmi and Gusau for treatment.
Local sources claimed the airstrike followed aerial surveillance of the market, which is located in an area where armed groups are said to operate openly and exercise control over surrounding communities.
According to eyewitness accounts, both traders and suspected armed fighters were present at the time of the strike, making it difficult to determine the exact nature of those killed. Some residents alleged that women and young vendors were among the casualties.
The Nigerian Air Force, however, has denied reports of civilian deaths, insisting that the operation targeted armed bandits. Defence officials described the claims of mass civilian casualties as inaccurate.
The incident has sparked renewed debate over military operations in conflict-prone rural areas, where armed groups often blend into civilian populations.
Human rights organisation Amnesty International has called for an independent investigation, alleging that over 100 civilians may have been killed and describing the strike as a possible violation of international humanitarian standards.
Security analysts say the tragedy highlights the growing dilemma facing military operations in northwestern Nigeria, where civilians are frequently caught between armed bandits and security interventions.
The affected communities in Zurmi LGA continue to face insecurity, limited government presence, and repeated attacks, leaving residents vulnerable to both criminal activity and military operations.
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