Airstrike Controversy: Dozens Feared Dead in Borno-Yobe as Debate Grows Over Civilian Safety

An airstrike on a border market between Borno and Yobe states has left dozens feared dead, triggering renewed concerns over civilian safety in Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations.

The strike targeted Jilli market, a location previously shut by the Borno State Government over alleged links to insurgent activity.

While initial reports indicated that many of those killed were Boko Haram members and their collaborators, accounts from eyewitnesses suggested that civilians may also have been caught in the தாக்க.

One witness said:

“The incident happened about 2:46 p.m…. I counted 56 corpses myself… I believe the number of casualties may be higher.”

Local officials also reported fatalities exceeding 30, with several injured persons receiving treatment.

Authorities, however, offered differing perspectives. Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum insisted the market had long been a terrorist hub:

“The Borno State government closed the Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago.”

Meanwhile, Yobe State officials acknowledged civilian impact:

“Some people… who went to the Jilli weekly market were affected.”

Military Justification vs Public Concern

Former Army Chief Tukur Buratai defended the strike, citing intelligence reports linking the market to insurgent logistics.

“No military wishes to harm civilians, but when such locations are persistently used by terrorists, action becomes necessary.”

The Nigerian Air Force has since launched an investigation into allegations of civilian casualties.

“The Service treats all reports… with the utmost seriousness… a fact-finding mission,” said spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

Humanitarian Strain Emerges

Hospitals in the region are already feeling the impact, with Maiduguri’s Specialist Hospital calling for urgent blood donations.

“We need people to donate blood… most of the victims need blood transfusion,” said Dr. Shehu Muhammad.

Atiku Demands Accountability

Reacting to the incident, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the strike as unacceptable.

“While targeting insurgents, innocent Nigerians were once again reduced to collateral damage… What is the value of Nigerian lives?”

He called for urgent reforms and accountability in military operations.

Violence Spreads to Zamfara

Separately, insecurity deepened in Zamfara State, where at least 18 people were killed in an attack on Bunkasau village.

Gunmen reportedly stormed the community on motorcycles, opening fire on residents.

Governor Dauda Lawal condemned the killings:

“Senseless acts of violence against innocent citizens.”

He ordered immediate support for victims and renewed security efforts across the state.

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