A Nigerian Air Force operation targeting suspected insurgents at Jilli market, a border community between Yobe State and Borno State, has sparked controversy after reports emerged of possible heavy civilian casualties alongside claims of successful strikes on terrorist elements.
The air raid, carried out on Saturday evening, reportedly targeted suspected fighters believed to be operating within a known insurgent logistics corridor. Military authorities say the operation was intelligence-driven and aimed at disrupting movement and supply networks linked to extremist groups in the region.
According to the military, precision strikes were conducted after surveillance confirmed the presence of suspected militants and their equipment, resulting in the destruction of vehicles and the neutralisation of several targets. The operation was part of ongoing efforts under counter-insurgency missions in the Northeast.
However, local accounts suggest the strike may have hit a busy trading area where civilians were present at the time. Witnesses and hospital sources reported a surge in injured persons, with medical facilities in nearby communities overwhelmed as casualties were transported for emergency care. The exact death toll remains unclear, but concerns persist that civilians may have been among those affected.
Governor Babagana Zulum stated that the area had previously been identified as a security risk zone and confirmed coordination with security agencies regarding operations in the region. He also urged residents to avoid supporting insurgent activities and to cooperate with ongoing security efforts.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the strike and acknowledged concerns about possible civilian harm, stating that an internal investigation has been launched. The service activated a civilian harm assessment mechanism to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, while calling for restraint in public speculation.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the reports of civilian deaths, calling for accountability and stronger safeguards to protect non-combatants during military operations.
Military officials further reported continued nationwide counter-terrorism successes, including arrests of suspected logistics suppliers, rescue operations for kidnapped victims, and the disruption of armed group activities across multiple regions.
As investigations continue, the incident has intensified debate over the balance between counter-insurgency operations and civilian protection in Nigeria’s conflict-affected Northeast.
