A missile fired by the United States landed unharmed in Jabo village, Tambuwal Local Council, Sokoto State, sparking fear and panic among residents, officials and local leaders said. The projectile reportedly struck a field about 400 metres from the Primary Health Centre on the night of the incident, causing no casualties but leaving the community shaken. The event follows heightened global tensions linked to US-backed airstrikes and statements by President Donald Trump.
HRH Garba Aliyu, the paramount leader of the Jabo community, held consultations with his traditional council and residents to address safety measures and calm fears in the aftermath. Aliyu said the incident, coupled with Trump’s recent Christmas remarks, has affected the community’s image and raised concerns about its perception internationally. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as the projectile crashed onto farmland. Resident Abubakar Nasiru recalled hearing a blast and seeing flames, prompting villagers to flee. Another witness, Sani Jabo, described intense heat and shaking homes as the explosion occurred near his residence. Local farmer Nuhu Umar Jabo lamented the sudden global attention on the previously peaceful community, emphasizing that Jabo has always been a harmonious settlement accommodating both Muslims and Christians. Authorities and community leaders are now focused on ensuring safety and restoring a sense of normalcy while residents continue to recover from the traumatic event.