No fewer than 50 persons, mostly traders, have been feared dead following a suspected military airstrike on a busy weekly market located along the border between Borno State and Yobe State.
The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday at Jilli Market, a commercial hub situated between Gubio and Geidam Local Government Areas.
The market typically draws large crowds from surrounding communities, making it a vital center for trade in the region.
Sources indicated that the airstrike was carried out during an operation targeting suspected Boko Haram insurgents believed to have infiltrated the area.
However, the operation allegedly missed its intended target, resulting in heavy civilian casualties.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that multiple fighter jets were involved in the operation, with explosions occurring while normal market activities were ongoing.
One source claimed to have counted over 50 bodies, adding that the casualty figure could rise as recovery efforts continue.
Several injured victims were rushed to a specialist hospital in Geidam, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Local officials confirmed that a number of those hospitalised later succumbed to their injuries.
A ward councillor in the area also corroborated the incident, stating that many victims were caught off guard as the strikes continued even as people attempted to flee.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser on Security to the Yobe State Governor acknowledged the incident but clarified that the affected community falls within Borno State’s jurisdiction.
As of the time of this report, the Nigerian Air Force has yet to issue an official statement regarding the airstrike.
