Civilians feared killed after reports of air strike on Nigerian market
Civilians feared killed after reports of air strike on Nigerian market
A recent aerial assault in a market in Nigeria’s northeast has raised concerns about civilian casualties. Reports indicate that military jets targeted a village market, sparking fears of significant loss of life. The strike occurred near the border of Yobe and Borno states, as part of ongoing operations against Islamist militants, as noted by Reuters and local accounts.
Conflicting casualty figures
The Nigerian Air Force stated it conducted “mop-up” strikes on “identified terrorist locations” in Borno State’s Jilli axis on Saturday. However, it has not confirmed hitting the market or any deaths. The area is a key battleground in the prolonged Boko Haram conflict, which has displaced over two million people and caused numerous fatalities.
“It’s a very devastating incident,” said Lawan Zanna Nur Geidam, a councillor in Yobe’s Geidam district. “The injured had been taken to hospitals in Yobe and Borno.” He cited reports of at least 200 casualties, while other sources provided varying numbers. Newspapers like the Sun and Punch claimed 10 deaths and several injuries, yet the Daily Trust reported an eyewitness stating at least 56 had perished, with 14 hospitalized.
Government response
The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency shared preliminary findings on Facebook, noting casualties at Jilli Market in Gubio local government area. It described the incident as affecting “some marketers” and mentioned that emergency teams were dispatched, though details remained unverified. Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam confirmed that residents from Geidam LGA, near Borno’s Gubio LGA, were among those impacted.
Witness account
Ahmed Ali, a 43-year-old trader, told Reuters he was injured during the attack. “I became so scared and attempted to run away, but a friend dragged me and we all lay on the ground,” he recounted. The strike, which targeted the market, has drawn criticism from human rights groups. Amnesty International’s Nigeria branch called the operation “unlawful” and “outrageous,” emphasizing the military’s neglect of civilian safety.
Historical context
Nigeria’s northeast has faced repeated instances where military air strikes against Islamist insurgents have mistakenly targeted civilians. Markets, villages, and displaced persons camps have all been hit in the past, highlighting the region’s ongoing challenges. The attack at Jilli Market underscores the persistent risks in this area, where the conflict has endured for years.
