By John Umeh
Widespread condemnation has followed a military airstrike on Jilli community along the Borno–Yobe border, as the number of casualties reportedly climbed beyond 60, triggering calls for accountability from political leaders, rights organisations, and local residents.
The incident, which occurred during a military operation targeting suspected insurgents, has drawn national attention amid fears that civilians were among those killed when bombs hit a crowded market area.
Military Orders Probe
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that it has initiated an investigation into the strike after reports suggested that civilians were affected. Air Force authorities said the Chief of Air Staff had directed the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell to conduct a fact-finding mission at the location.
Officials maintained that the operation was based on credible intelligence indicating that the area served as a logistics base for insurgents. However, they acknowledged receiving reports of civilian casualties and pledged transparency in determining what transpired.
The Air Force added that protecting civilian lives remains central to its operations and urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation continues.
Death Toll Rises
Local sources said rescue efforts continued hours after the attack, with additional bodies recovered from the site. Several injured victims were reportedly transported to hospitals in Geidam and Damaturu for urgent treatment.
Witnesses said the strike occurred during market activities, when traders and residents from nearby communities had gathered, increasing fears that many non-combatants were caught in the explosion.
Atiku, Rights Groups React
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the incident, describing it as deeply troubling and calling for a thorough review of military engagement procedures.
He stressed that while combating insurgency remains essential, protecting civilian lives must remain a priority, urging authorities to ensure accountability and improved operational safeguards.
Human rights organisation Amnesty International also criticised the airstrike, citing reports that military aircraft targeted an area where civilians were present. The group called for an independent investigation and demanded accountability for any wrongdoing.
Similarly, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre described the incident as tragic and reflective of recurring civilian casualties in counterterrorism operations. The organisation urged the government to establish an independent panel and provide compensation for affected families.
Yobe Government Responds
The Yobe State Government confirmed that some victims were residents who had travelled from neighbouring communities to attend the weekly market. Authorities said emergency response teams had been deployed and injured victims were receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.
Officials maintained that the target of the strike was believed to be a Boko Haram enclave but acknowledged that civilians may have been unintentionally affected.
Military Defends Operation
Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, defended the operation, describing it as a necessary strike against a known insurgent logistics hub. He said intelligence indicated that armed groups had been using the market to coordinate activities and procure supplies.
While expressing regret over civilian casualties, he blamed insurgents for operating within civilian populations, warning residents to avoid areas suspected to be infiltrated by armed groups.
Zulum Warns Residents
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum also cautioned residents against aiding insurgents or engaging in activities that could expose them to danger. He noted that authorities had previously shut down markets in the area due to security concerns.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s collaboration with security agencies to restore stability and urged residents to provide credible intelligence to authorities.
Growing Security Concerns
Meanwhile, stakeholders have raised alarm over escalating violence across parts of the country, with reports of attacks in several northern and central communities. Observers warned that repeated incidents involving civilian casualties could undermine public trust in security operations.
Civil society groups and community leaders are now urging the government to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve precision in operations, and ensure accountability to prevent future tragedies.
As investigations continue, families of victims and residents in affected communities await answers, hoping that the outcome will bring justice and help prevent similar incidents in the future.
