Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has expressed concern over the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) bombing, which targeted insurgents, but reportedly resulted in the death of some innocent Nigerians in Jilli market along the Borno–Yobe border.
According to reports, no fewer than 56 people, mostly traders, are feared dead while several others sustained injuries following the airstrike.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the incident occurred on Saturday at Jilli Market, located between Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State and Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State.
Reacting in a statement on Sunday, Atiku described the death of innocent Nigerians in the bombing as tragic.
He lamented that innocent Nigerians have been reduced to collateral damage and remain unsafe from both terrorists and security operations meant to protect them.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain called for an urgent review and accountability of security operations while commiserating with the families of the victims and the affected communities.
He called on the Nigerian government to uphold the duty of protecting its citizens.
“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience.
“While targeting insurgents, innocent Nigerians were once again reduced to collateral damage. How long will citizens remain unsafe both from terrorists and from the very operations meant to protect them? Just a few days ago, the United States deployed over 150 aircraft and spent an estimated $300 million to rescue just one pilot in Iran, even destroying equipment worth over $100 million each to protect a single life. That is the value they place on one citizen.
“Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives? This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizen. That is the ultimate essence of National Security,” Atiku wrote.