The Nigerian Airforce said it has commenced investigations into the alleged firing of civilian settlements in Yobe state.

Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet in a statement said “Following intelligence on Boko Haram/ISWAP movements along the Kamadougou Yobe River line, an aircraft from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai was detailed to respond to the suspected terrorists activities in the area along the Nigeria/Niger border at about 0600hrs on 15 September 2021.

Gabkwet said that a Board of Inquiry has been set up to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the incident.

“The aircraft while operating South of Kanama observed suspicious movement consistent with Boko Haram terrorists behaviour whenever a Jet aircraft is overhead.”

The statement further states that the pilot fired some probing shots in the area that is allegedly well known for continuous Boko Haram /ISWAP activities.

“Unfortunately reports reaching Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters alleged that some civilians were erroneously killed while others were injured.

“Initial release denying the involvement of NAF aircraft was based on the first report available to the Air Component which was subsequently forwarded to NAF headquarters that civilians were bombed as the aircraft detailed for the mission was not carrying bombs,” the statement reads.