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Deadly airstrike targets market in Nigeria's northeast
Dozens of civilians are feared dead after Nigerian military jets struck a bustling village market near the Yobe-Borno border, according to local officials and witnesses. The attack occurred during an operation against Islamist militants in the region.
Military operation and conflicting reports
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed conducting "mop-up" airstrikes on Saturday in the Jilli area of Borno state, targeting "identified terrorist locations." However, it did not acknowledge hitting the market or causing civilian casualties.
Casualty figures vary widely. Reuters, citing a local councillor, three residents, and a humanitarian official, reported at least 200 deaths. Nigerian outlets The Sun and Punch cited sources claiming 10 fatalities, while Daily Trust quoted an eyewitness who said 56 people died, with 14 hospitalized.
Humanitarian response and local accounts
The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency acknowledged "preliminary reports" of an incident at Jilli Market in Gubio local government area, resulting in casualties among traders. Emergency teams were deployed, but details remain unverified.
Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam stated that residents from Yobe's Geidam local government area who visited the market were affected. Ahmed Ali, a 43-year-old trader, recounted his injuries: "I became so scared and attempted to run away, but a friend dragged me, and we all lay on the ground."
Condemnation and historical context
Amnesty International's Nigeria branch condemned the strike, calling it "unlawful" and accusing the military of "shocking disregard for civilian lives." The group claimed over 100 people were killed.
The incident fits a pattern of accidental civilian casualties during military airstrikes in Nigeria's northeast, where operations against Boko Haram have repeatedly struck villages, displacement camps, and markets. The insurgency has displaced over two million people and killed thousands.
Market's significance and ongoing risks
Jilli Market, a weekly gathering, draws traders and buyers from surrounding communities. The Nigerian Air Force described its Saturday strikes as targeting "fleeing remnants and regrouping cells" exploiting the region's difficult terrain.
