The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched an investigation into reports of civilian casualties following airstrikes around Jilli Market near Fuchimiram village in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State.
In a statement on Sunday, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the force treats all reports of civilian harm with “utmost seriousness and empathy.” He disclosed that the Chief of the Air Staff has ordered the immediate deployment of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to conduct a fact-finding mission at the site.
The NAF reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in its operations.
Earlier, the Air Force confirmed carrying out mop-up airstrikes in the Jilli axis as part of ongoing efforts to neutralise fleeing terrorist elements and prevent regrouping in the area. However, it did not confirm whether civilian casualties occurred.
Local sources reported that several people were feared killed and others injured in what is suspected to be an accidental strike on Jilli Market, a busy trading hub where residents were conducting their daily activities at the time.
Jilli, a border community near Damasak in Borno State, lies more than 200 kilometres from Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.
An eyewitness who visited the Geidam Specialist Hospital said many victims were receiving emergency treatment, with the facility’s Accident and Emergency unit reportedly overwhelmed as more casualties arrived.
Another local source indicated that the airstrike may have occurred while a military jet was tracking suspected Boko Haram insurgents, who were reportedly at the market to collect levies from residents.
