Police Won’t Disclose Details Of US Strikes In Nigeria, Says Hundeyin

Police Won’t Disclose Details Of US Strikes In Nigeria, Says Hundeyin

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed awareness of recent United States military airstrikes against terrorist targets in Sokoto State but has firmly declined to disclose operational details.

Speaking on Channels Television’s political programme Politics Today, Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin emphasized that while the police are deeply involved in intelligence gathering and cooperation with other security agencies, they will not publicly comment on the specifics of the strikes.

Hundeyin explained that the police maintain a critical role in intelligence work, both in gathering and sharing information, but stressed that matters of military operations fall strictly within the purview of the Ministry of Defence. He noted that although the police are privy to certain aspects of the strikes, they deliberately refrain from discussing them, describing the issue as a sensitive defence matter.

According to Hundeyin, “We engage a lot in intelligence gathering, not just intelligence sharing. As the Police Force, we know certain things about the strikes, but we don’t want to talk about them. We decline to talk about that particular operation.” His remarks underscore the institutional boundaries between law enforcement and military authorities in Nigeria’s security architecture.

The airstrikes, reportedly carried out on December 25, 2025, were part of a joint effort between Nigerian and U.S. forces to dismantle terrorist enclaves in Sokoto State. The operation was said to have been approved by President Bola Tinubu as part of broader counterterrorism measures.

While details of the targets and outcomes remain undisclosed, the strikes highlight ongoing international cooperation in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

Hundeyin’s refusal to elaborate reflects a deliberate strategy to protect sensitive intelligence and operational integrity. By deferring to the Ministry of Defence, the police reinforce the principle that military actions, especially those involving foreign allies, are best communicated by defence authorities.

This stance also suggests a careful balancing act between transparency and national security, as public disclosure could compromise ongoing operations or diplomatic relations.

The development has sparked public interest and debate, particularly given the rarity of U.S. military involvement in Nigerian territory.

However, the police’s position signals a broader policy of discretion, ensuring that sensitive defence matters remain shielded from public scrutiny. It also highlights the layered nature of Nigeria’s security response, where multiple agencies collaborate but maintain distinct responsibilities.

In summary, the Nigeria Police Force acknowledges knowledge of the U.S. strikes but insists on silence regarding operational details. Hundeyin’s comments reinforce the police’s intelligence role while deferring military disclosure to defence authorities, underscoring the sensitive and complex nature of counterterrorism operations in Nigeria.