A devastating incident occurred at Jilli market, situated between Gubio and Geidam Local Government Areas of Borno and Yobe states, on Saturday, April 11. The weekly market, which attracts traders and buyers from surrounding communities, was the site of an airstrike that has claimed the lives of over 50 people, mostly traders. The incident is suspected to have been carried out during a military operation targeting suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
According to eyewitnesses, the fighter jet that carried out the operation was tracking a group of suspected insurgents believed to have visited the market to collect levies from traders and obtain supplies. However, the strike reportedly missed its intended target and hit the unsuspecting traders. The incident occurred around 2:46 p.m. while business activities were ongoing, with multiple sources confirming that four fighter jets carried out the attack.
The councillor of Fichimaram Ward, Malam Lawan Zanna, confirmed the incident and said that about 20 people had been admitted to the Specialist Hospital in Geidam. The Special Adviser to the Yobe State Governor on Security Matters, Brigadier General Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd), also confirmed the incident, although he stated that it occurred within Borno State. However, officials in Geidam Local Government have disputed this claim, stating that Jilli village falls under Gubio LGA of Borno State.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the communities surrounding Jilli market, with many traders and buyers still reeling from the devastating effects of the airstrike. The market, which usually attracts a large number of people, has been a hub of economic activity in the region. The loss of life and property is a devastating blow to the community, and many are still coming to terms with the tragedy.
As the investigation into the incident continues, the community is left to ponder the consequences of the airstrike. The incident highlights the risks faced by civilians in conflict zones, where military operations can often have unintended consequences. The incident also raises questions about the effectiveness of military operations in targeting Boko Haram insurgents, and the need for greater caution to avoid civilian casualties.
The community is still reeling from the effects of the incident, and many are calling for greater accountability and transparency in military operations. The incident is a sobering reminder of the human cost of conflict, and the need for greater caution and care in military operations to avoid civilian casualties.
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