🇳🇬 “WE THOUGHT IT WAS AIR CRASH” — HOW RESIDENTS RECOUNT IT

Residents of Jabo village in Tambuwal Local Government Area, Sokoto State described a frightening scene on Thursday night into Friday when a loud explosion and fiery object falling from the sky startled the community.
Many villagers initially believed they were witnessing an aircraft crash due to the loud noise and fireball in the sky, forcing families to flee in panic.

Locals say the community has not faced significant security threats before, making the event even more shocking.

Some witnesses reportedly collected fragments/debris from the area afterward, raising safety concerns about unexploded materials.

🚨 No confirmed civilian casualties have been reported from Sokoto authorities so far.

🇺🇸 WHAT U.S. SOURCES & OFFICIALS SAY
According to international reports:
The United States announced it conducted airstrikes in northwest Nigeria targeting Islamic State (ISIS)–linked militants as part of a counterterrorism effort.

The strikes were said to be coordinated with Nigerian authorities and based on shared intelligence on militant activities.

U.S. defenders framed the action as aimed at halting violence by extremist groups, including attacks on civilians.

📌 LOCAL & GOVERNMENT RESPONSES
Security and public safety:
Police and Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams have cordoned off the strike site and urged caution around debris to prevent injuries.

Political reaction:
Former Sokoto Governor Aminu Tambuwal has urged calm and cooperation with security agencies while clarifying details of the strikes.

Societal concerns:
Some Nigerians and activists are faulting the government for a lack of prior information or warning to affected communities.

🧭 WHY THIS IS SIGNIFICANT
This incident is part of a broader escalation of security operations in northwest Nigeria, a region long challenged by insurgent groups such as the Lakurawa and Islamic State–linked fighters.