Military Faces Probe After Jet Bombs Borno-Yobe Market, Dozens Feared Dead

The Nigerian military is facing fresh scrutiny following a deadly airstrike on a weekly market along the Borno–Yobe border, where dozens of people are feared dead.

The incident has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns over civilian safety in ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.

Politics Nigeria earlier reported that the strike reportedly hit Jilli market, a location said to have been shut down by the Borno State Government about five years ago due to security concerns.

Despite the closure, the market still attracted traders and buyers from nearby communities across both states.

Local sources said the air raid was aimed at suspected members of the Boko Haram group who were believed to have gathered at the market.

However, reports indicate that the operation may have missed its intended targets, with several civilians allegedly caught in the blast.

Eyewitness accounts described a chaotic scene. One resident said the attack occurred in the afternoon while trading activities were ongoing. “The incident happened about 2:46 p.m., while business activities were ongoing. Four fighter jets carried out the attack, though the fourth jet was not clearly visible. We only heard the sound of explosions.”

The same witness claimed that the casualties were significant. “I counted 56 corpses myself and helped rescue two injured people, taking them to the hospital. I believe the number of casualties may be higher, as more bodies are still being recovered.”

Another local official, Malam Lawan Zanna, who represents Fichimaram Ward, confirmed the incident and said the death toll had risen steadily. “The incident occurred at Jilli village’s weekly market under Fichimaram Ward in Geidam LGA. From the information available to us, it was an airstrike.”

He added that panic broke out as the bombs dropped. “When the jets launched their attack, people panicked and began to run, but the strikes continued. As we speak, over 30 people have been killed.”

Zanna also revealed that several victims were rushed to medical facilities in Yobe State. “More than 20 people were hospitalised in Geidam, two were referred to the Teaching Hospital in Damaturu. Out of those receiving treatment, nine have died, bringing the death toll to over 30.”

In response, the Nigerian Air Force, which operates under Operation Hadin Kai, acknowledged the reports and said an investigation was underway. Military authorities have yet to release an official casualty figure.

Meanwhile, both Borno and Yobe State governments have defended the operation, insisting that the area targeted was a known insurgent stronghold.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, said he had been fully briefed on the incident. “I have been properly briefed on the airstrike carried out by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai on the Jilli market, a border town between Borno and Yobe states. Let me state categorically that the Borno State government closed the Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago.”

He explained that the closure was part of efforts to cut off supply routes used by insurgents. According to him, the government always works closely with security agencies before reopening markets or resettling displaced communities.

Similarly, the Yobe State Government confirmed that the operation targeted Boko Haram enclaves but admitted that some civilians may have been affected.

The Special Adviser on Security Matters to the governor, Brig. Gen. Dahiru Abdulsalam (retd.), clarified the situation in an official statement. “The attention of Yobe State government has been drawn to online reports suggesting an attack on the people of Gaidam LGA.”

“It has become necessary to set the records straight. The Air Component of the Joint Task Force, (Northeast) Operation HADIN KAI conducted an air strike mission on Jilli (a Boko Haram stronghold) of Gubio council on Saturday.”

He further stated that those impacted were individuals who had gone to the area for trading activities. “However, some people from Geidam LGA bordering Gubio LGA in Borno State who went to the Jilli weekly market were affected. They have been evacuated to Geidam Specialist Hospital and responding to treatment.”

The development has also drawn strong reactions from political leaders. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the strike, describing it as a tragic error that demands accountability.

While investigations continue, concerns remain over the growing number of civilian casualties linked to military operations.