Former presidential candidate and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has criticized the United States following a reported airstrike against suspected ISIS fighters in northwest Nigeria, warning that the action undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty and could destabilize the region.
Sowore described the strike as unacceptable foreign interference, arguing that while international partners can support Nigeria through training or intelligence sharing, direct military action on Nigerian soil crosses a dangerous line.
“Nobody should be celebrating this,” he said. “This is an imperialist move. Foreign troops launching attacks inside Nigeria is reckless and harmful.”
He added that the incident represents note-worthy setback for African self-determination, calling it “a sad moment for the idea of African liberation and independence.”
Trump Confirms Strike on ISIS Targets
The airstrike was publicly acknowledged by U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced on his Truth Social platform that American forces had carried out a military operation against ISIS fighters in northwest Nigeria.
According to Trump, the targeted group had been responsible for repeated attacks on Christians. He claimed the strike followed earlier warnings issued by his administration.
“At my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorist elements in Northwest Nigeria,” Trump stated.
AFRICOM Says Operation Was Coordinated With Nigeria
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) later confirmed the airstrike, stating that it was conducted “at the request of Nigerian authorities” and resulted in the deaths of several ISIS operatives.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also acknowledged Nigeria’s cooperation in the operation, suggesting that further military actions could follow, though no specifics were provided.
The strike was reported to have taken place in Sokoto State, though some accounts referred to the location as “Soboto.”
Explosion Triggers Panic in Sokoto Community
Meanwhile, residents of Jabo village in Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State were gripped by fear on Christmas night after a loud explosion was heard in the area.
Eyewitnesses said the blast caused widespread panic, with villagers rushing out of their homes in confusion. Although no casualties were reported, residents believe the explosion may be linked to the airstrike.
“It happened suddenly at night,” one resident said. “The sound caused fear, but thankfully it did not land among the people.”
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As of now, Nigerian authorities have not issued an official statement detailing the extent of the damage or confirming the precise location of the strike.
