Former Niger Delta militant leader Asari Dokubo has disputed the effectiveness of recent United States airstrikes in Sokoto State, Nigeria, claiming that the operation did not result in any bandit casualties. According to Dokubo, the airstrikes failed to achieve their intended goal, as the missiles landed in an empty area, causing no significant damage.
In a video shared on social media, Dokubo reiterated his lack of fear towards US President Donald Trump, while also questioning the authenticity of the US operation in Sokoto. He alleged that the US only employed drones in the area and described the entire operation as futile. Dokubo challenged the Nigerian government to provide evidence that the airstrikes resulted in the death of at least one terrorist.
The former militant leader argued that the US is unable to deploy its soldiers in Nigeria due to the country’s independence. He expressed concern that the airstrikes posed a risk to the lives of innocent civilians, as bombs were dropped in an open field. Dokubo’s statements come amid ongoing efforts by the Nigerian government to combat banditry and terrorism in the region.
The US airstrikes in Sokoto State are part of a broader campaign to support the Nigerian government’s counter-terrorism efforts. However, the effectiveness of these operations has been called into question by some, including Dokubo. The Nigerian government has yet to respond to Dokubo’s claims, and it remains to be seen whether they will provide evidence to support the success of the airstrikes.
As the situation in Sokoto State continues to unfold, there are concerns about the potential consequences of military operations in the region. The international community is closely monitoring developments, and the Nigerian government is under pressure to demonstrate its ability to effectively address the security challenges facing the country. The dispute over the effectiveness of the US airstrikes highlights the complexity of the conflict and the need for a nuanced approach to addressing the root causes of instability in the region.
