Tragedy struck on Saturday has about 56 people, who are mostly traders, have beem feared dead as a result of a strike conducted by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) along the Borno-Yobe border.
The incident, which occurred late Saturday evening, saw NAF fighter jets target a busy transit point frequently used by local merchants and weekly market traders.
It was also gathered that the NAF strike on the Borno-Yobe border occurred at Dilli Market in Yobe State, a major trading hub near Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, where traders and residents from neighbouring communities usually converge.
Some of the victims are reportedly receiving treatment at Geidam Specialist Hospital.
Confirming the development, the Public Relations Officer of the Yobe State Police Command, Dungus Abdulkarim, stated that authorities were aware of the incident but were still verifying the details.
“We are aware of the incident that occurred at Dilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border, and we are currently gathering information on what transpired,” he said.
“At this moment, we do not have confirmed casualty figures, as details are still being verified. Security agencies are on the ground assessing the situation, while efforts are ongoing to ensure proper documentation and response, after which the public will be duly informed with accurate and official updates.”
Amid the reports, the Nigerian Air Force confirmed it carried out air operations in the area but did not state whether civilians were affected.
In a statement signed by its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said it conducted “precision follow-up mop-up airstrikes on identified terrorist locations within the Jilli axis of Borno State on April 11, 2026.”
According to the statement, the strikes were part of a coordinated air and ground offensive with the Nigerian Army under Operation HADIN KAI.
“Coming amid intensified efforts to track and neutralise terrorist elements responsible for recent attacks on security forces within the wider theatre, the follow-on strikes were aimed at fleeing remnants and regrouping cells seeking to exploit the difficult terrain,” the statement said.
The Air Force added that the operation was based on credible intelligence and intended to consolidate earlier gains against insurgents, as well as restrict their movement and capacity to launch attacks.
However, the statement did not make any reference to casualties or directly address reports from residents regarding the market strike.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the NAF strike at the Borno-Yobe border.
The former vice-president described the incident as a “devastating failure” that demands urgent accountability.
Reacting in a statement posted on X on Sunday, Atiku expressed outrage over the loss of civilian lives, warning that such incidents continue to undermine public confidence in security operations.
“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience,” he said.
He criticised the recurring pattern of civilians being affected during counter-insurgency operations, noting that those meant to be protected are often caught in the crossfire.
“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?” he asked.
Atiku drew a comparison with international military standards, citing a recent United States operation to emphasise the value placed on human life.
“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,” he said.
“That is the value they place on one citizen. Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives?”
He called for a comprehensive review of military operations and stronger safeguards to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence,” he added.
The former vice-president also extended condolences to the families of the victims and the affected communities.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizens. That is the ultimate essence of National Security,” he said.
