Fresh panic has enveloped the town of Offa in Kwara State following a suspected airstrike that damaged a popular hotel, injuring at least five people, including a couple and their young daughter. The incident, occurring on Friday, December 26, 2025, comes just hours after the United States announced military action against terrorist targets in northwest Nigeria.
Hotel Sustains Significant Damage in Suspected Strike
The suspected aerial object struck the Solidworth Hotel located in the Lamodi area of Offa. A family source close to the hotel's CEO, Alhaji Abefe Taofeek Bello, confirmed to journalists that a significant section of the building was damaged. Video footage from the scene showed extensive structural damage and debris scattered across the hotel premises, causing widespread fear among residents who fled the area.
The source confirmed that security operatives swiftly moved to the scene. "The suspected aerial object was secured and evacuated by the security operatives shortly after the incident was reported," the source stated. Crucially, the family source emphasized that no casualties were recorded from the hotel incident, offering some relief amidst the chaos.
Multiple Buildings Hit, Injuries Confirmed
This event marks the second confirmed location affected by suspected aerial activity in Offa within a short period. An earlier explosion had been reported in the Eid area of the town late on Thursday, December 25. According to the family source, the two incidents combined damaged about four buildings.
"So far, we have counted like four buildings that were damaged by these strikes. And for people, I know at least five people already who were injured. No death recorded. The five people injured included a couple and their little daughter," the source revealed.
Residents described the moments of terror. One recounted, "It was a very heavy sound. At first, some people thought it was thunder, but it was different. When we came outside, we saw that some buildings had been affected." Another resident added to the anxiety by noting that an undetonated explosive device was discovered at the second location, keeping people away until daybreak.
Background of US-Nigeria Collaboration Against Terrorism
The explosions in Offa occurred against the backdrop of a major military announcement. US President Donald Trump disclosed on Thursday, December 25, that American forces had launched a "powerful and deadly strike" against ISIS-linked targets in northwest Nigeria. The Nigerian government has since confirmed that the operation was conducted in collaboration with American authorities.
This development has, however, sparked a sharp debate within the United States Congress. Lawmakers are divided over President Trump's claim of unilateral authority to order such strikes in Nigeria, questioning the constitutional and strategic implications of the action.
The situation remains tense in Offa as authorities continue their investigations. While the immediate panic has subsided, the physical damage to properties and the injuries sustained serve as a stark reminder of the complex security landscape and the far-reaching consequences of international counter-terrorism operations on Nigerian soil.
