The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its fighter jets carried out air operations in the Jilli axis of Borno State, stating that the mission was part of ongoing efforts to sustain pressure on terrorists in the North-East.
The confirmation followed reports that more than 50 people were killed in an accidental bombing at a weekly market along the Borno–Yobe border.
The affected market, which attracts traders from surrounding communities including Gubio, Chiweram and Benisheikh in Borno State, as well as Gurokayeya and Geidam in Yobe State, was reportedly crowded when the strike occurred.
Sources who spoke with Daily Trust said the fighter jet involved in the operation was tracking suspected insurgents believed to have visited the market to collect levies and gather supplies.
However, the strike reportedly missed its intended target.
An eyewitness said at least 56 people were killed while 14 others were receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital in Geidam, Yobe State.
In a statement issued after the incident, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation targeted fleeing insurgents and their hideouts.
Ejodame explained that the air strikes were conducted on Friday by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai as part of ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the region.
He said the mission followed an earlier successful engagement that had weakened terrorist positions in the area.
“The follow-up strikes were executed based on credible intelligence and in close coordination with ground forces to deny terrorists freedom of movement and prevent further attacks,” he said.
Terrorist Hideouts Destroyed
According to the NAF spokesperson, the operation resulted in the destruction of insurgent hideouts and the neutralisation of several terrorists through precision follow-up strikes.
“The operation formed part of a broader air-ground integration effort aimed at consolidating earlier gains recorded by friendly forces,” Ejodame added.
He said the strikes disrupted terrorist activities in the Jilli axis, an area frequently exploited by insurgents because of its difficult terrain.
Ejodame noted that the operation reflected the increasing effectiveness of intelligence-driven military operations in the North-East.
“The NAF will continue to sustain momentum in ongoing operations to protect innocent lives, secure communities and restore lasting peace in the region,” he said.
The statement, however, did not directly address the reported civilian casualties at the market or claim responsibility for the incident.