By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Several persons are feared dead and many injured after a suspected accidental airstrike hit Jilli Market near Fuchimiram village in Geidam Local Government Area on Saturday afternoon. The strike reportedly occurred around 2:46 p.m. when fighter jets targeted suspected insurgents but hit a busy civilian market instead. The incident, which happened along the Yobe–Borno border, has triggered outrage and raised fresh concerns over civilian safety during military operations.
Chaos as Explosions Rock Busy Market
Jilli is a major weekly market that attracts traders from nearby communities. These include Gubio, Chiweram, and Benisheikh in Borno State, as well as Geidam and Gurokayeya in Yobe.
However, eyewitnesses said the market turned chaotic when explosions suddenly erupted. Traders and buyers ran for safety as panic spread quickly.
One resident said four fighter jets flew overhead before the explosions began.
“We heard loud blasts as people scrambled to escape,” the eyewitness explained.
Casualties Rise as Rescue Efforts Continue
Local sources reported a high number of casualties. One witness claimed he counted at least 56 bodies at the scene. He also assisted two injured victims to a hospital.
Meanwhile, officials gave varying figures. The councillor of Fichimaram Ward, Malam Lawan Zanna, confirmed over 30 deaths.
He added that more than 20 injured persons were taken to hospitals in Geidam. Some victims were later referred to a teaching hospital in Damaturu.
Sadly, some of those receiving treatment later died, increasing the death toll.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by Influx of Victims
Medical facilities in the area struggled to handle the situation. The Geidam Specialist Hospital reportedly became overcrowded.
Doctors treated at least 14 injured victims initially. However, other reports suggested more than 20 people were admitted.
As a result, authorities transferred critical cases to better-equipped hospitals.
Military Operation Targeted Insurgents
Sources revealed that the airstrike targeted suspected Boko Haram fighters. The insurgents allegedly entered the market to collect levies and supplies.
However, the strike reportedly missed its intended targets and hit civilians instead.
In response, the Nigerian Air Force confirmed it carried out operations in the Jilli axis. It stated that the mission formed part of Operation HADIN KAI.
According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the strikes targeted fleeing insurgents and regrouping cells.
He added that the operation relied on credible intelligence and aimed to prevent further attacks.
However, the Air Force did not confirm civilian casualties.
Confusion Over Exact Location
Authorities also disagreed on the exact location of the incident. While local reports linked it to Geidam in Yobe State, officials clarified otherwise.
Brigadier General Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd) stated that Jilli village falls under Gubio Local Government Area in Borno State.
This confusion has complicated official responses and investigations.
Outrage as Atiku Demands Accountability
The incident sparked strong reactions nationwide. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar condemned the strike and described it as a tragic failure.
He questioned why civilians continue to suffer during military operations.
“The loss of innocent traders must concern every Nigerian,” he stated.
Furthermore, he called for accountability and urgent reforms to prevent future tragedies.
He also urged the government to prioritise civilian protection during counter-insurgency operations.
Renewed Concerns Over Civilian Safety
This incident highlights ongoing risks in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency. Military operations often target armed groups hiding among civilians.
However, such operations sometimes lead to unintended casualties.
Therefore, experts stress the need for improved intelligence and precision targeting.
Ultimately, protecting civilian lives must remain a top priority.
