At least 100 people have been killed in a Nigerian military airstrike on a market in the northwestern state of Zamfara, according to Amnesty International. The rights group reported that the strike occurred on Sunday in the town of Kaura Namoda, targeting a bustling market area.
Details of the Attack
Amnesty International stated that the airstrike hit the market while it was crowded with shoppers and traders. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and devastation, with many victims trapped under debris. The Nigerian Air Force has not yet commented on the incident, but local authorities confirmed the death toll.
Calls for Investigation
Amnesty International has urged the Nigerian government to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the airstrike. The organization emphasized that targeting civilians may constitute a war crime. "This attack on a market, where people were going about their daily lives, is a clear violation of international humanitarian law," said a spokesperson for Amnesty.
Background on Zamfara Conflict
Zamfara state has been plagued by banditry and kidnappings for years, with criminal gangs often operating from forests. The Nigerian military has conducted air and ground operations to combat these groups, but civilian casualties have been a recurring issue. This latest incident underscores the challenges of distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants in conflict zones.
International Reactions
The United Nations has also expressed concern over the airstrike, calling for restraint and the protection of civilians. Human rights groups have long criticized the Nigerian military's tactics in the region, urging more precise targeting to avoid such tragic losses of life.
As the community mourns, local leaders are demanding accountability and compensation for the families of the victims. The government has promised to look into the matter, but no official statement has been released regarding the airstrike's authorization or target.
