Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to conduct an independent investigation into the reported killing of at least six civilians following a military airstrike in Guradnayi settlement, Niger State
The rights organisation condemned the incident, which reportedly occurred in the early hours of Sunday during military operations targeting armed groups operating around the area.
According to early reports from residents, the airstrike struck a residential community near Kusasu in Shiroro Local Government Area at about 5:00 a.m., leaving at least six civilians dead and several others injured.
Amnesty International said those injured in the attack were receiving medical treatment, while stressing the need for Nigerian authorities to immediately launch a transparent, impartial and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The organisation urged the government to make the findings of the investigation public and ensure accountability for any violations of international human rights and humanitarian law.
Amnesty International expressed concern over what it described as the recurring loss of civilian lives resulting from military air operations in Nigeria, warning that such incidents raise serious questions about compliance with international legal obligations, particularly the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution during armed conflict.
The group also called on authorities to provide victims and affected families with medical care, humanitarian assistance, psychosocial support and effective remedies, including compensation where necessary.
It further urged the Nigerian government to review operational procedures guiding aerial bombardments and introduce stronger safeguards aimed at preventing civilian casualties during security operations.
“Civilians must never be placed at risk during security operations,” the organisation stated.
