Former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has alleged that the United States military airstrikes carried out in Sokoto State on Christmas Day were conducted without the approval of the Nigerian government.
Reports indicate that the US military carried out aerial operations targeting terrorist elements in parts of Sokoto State on Christmas night.
The action was later publicly acknowledged by US President Donald Trump and the US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, through separate statements released on Thursday evening.
Following the announcements, Nigeria’s Federal Government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that the airstrikes took place, describing the operation as a product of cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
However, Sowore disputed the government’s account, insisting that the strikes violated Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
In a statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, the former presidential candidate accused the Federal Government of misrepresenting its level of involvement.
According to him, while Nigerian authorities have claimed prior knowledge and described the operation as a joint effort involving unnamed international partners, the reality suggests that the strikes were executed without proper authorisation or informed consent from Nigeria’s leadership.
Sowore further argued that the nature of the attack raised concerns about the US administration’s understanding of Nigeria’s internal dynamics and the safety of its citizens. He described the situation as a reflection of weak leadership, which he said has left the country unable to effectively safeguard its sovereignty.
He added that Nigeria, despite being Africa’s most populous nation, now appears sidelined as foreign powers conduct military actions within its borders.
Sowore maintained that only strong, accountable, and competent leadership can ensure the protection of Nigerians and the nation’s territorial integrity.
Investigations and official clarifications regarding the operation are expected to continue as reactions trail the development.
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