Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has stated that the Jilli market in Gubio Local Government Area, recently linked to a military airstrike controversy, was already known as a hub for insurgent logistics before it was officially shut down five years ago.
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor said the market had long been associated with insecurity-related activities and was part of locations closed by the state government as part of broader security measures.
Governor Zulum explained that the closure of Jilli and nearby markets was aimed at disrupting supply routes and gathering points allegedly used by insurgents and their collaborators. He added that such decisions are made in coordination with security agencies before any reopening or resettlement of affected communities.
He further stated that the state government is in close consultation with military authorities and neighbouring Yobe State over the incident, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting ongoing security operations in the region.
The comments come amid reports of a military airstrike on the Jilli axis, which allegedly resulted in civilian casualties during a crowded market day. The Nigerian Air Force is reportedly investigating the incident, as conflicting accounts continue to emerge regarding the targets of the operation.
Authorities maintain that the area has long been a hotspot for insurgent activity, while residents and eyewitness accounts have raised concerns over the impact of the strike on civilians.
