Tragedy struck in Nigeria’s North-East as more than 200 civilians were reportedly killed following airstrikes by fighter jets of the Nigerian Air Force on Jilli market, a busy trading hub located between Geidam and Gubio Local Government Areas of Yobe and Borno states.
The deadly incident, which occurred on Saturday, was said to have happened during a military operation targeting fleeing terrorists along the volatile border corridor. However, the strikes allegedly hit civilians at the market, leading to massive casualties.
As of press time, both the Nigerian Air Force and the Borno State Government have remained silent on the development, fuelling concerns and outrage over the incident.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the Nigerian Air Force, Ehimen Ejodami, proved abortive, as calls and text messages sent to his line went unanswered.
Confirming the situation, the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) disclosed that it had activated an emergency response after receiving initial reports of the incident, which indicated casualties among traders at the market.
Also speaking on the development, the Special Adviser on Security to the Yobe State Governor, Abdulsalam Dahiru, acknowledged the occurrence but clarified that the location falls within Borno State territory.
“I have spoken with the chairman of Geidam Local Government, who informed me that Jilli village falls under Gubio LGA of Borno State,” Mr Dahiru told newsmen on Sunday.
With conflicting details and no official statement yet from military authorities, the incident has raised serious questions as investigations and reactions continue to unfold.
