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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Former Chief of Army Staff, General Tukur Buratai, has described the Airstrike on Jilli market, Borno State as a justified military action targeting a known insurgent stronghold, even as he acknowledged the tragic loss of civilian lives.
No fewer than 60 people have been reported killed and several others injured following an airstrike on Jilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border, an incident that has sparked both grief and debate over Nigeria’s ongoing counterinsurgency operations.
In a statement made available newsmen, Buratai said, “Any loss of innocent life is deeply unfortunate and painful,”
Buratai said in a statement on Sunday, said, “However, the strike was a targeted military action based on credible intelligence that Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were using the weekly market at Jilli to collect illegal levies, procure supplies, and plan further attacks.”
The former Army Chief stated that Jilli Market had long been identified by security agencies as a logistics hub for insurgent groups operating in the region.
He recalled that the Nigerian Army had previously shut down the market during operations, including the 2018 Operation LAST HOLD, when troops engaged insurgents in the area.
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“Despite several closures, the terrorists continued to operate the market with the cooperation of some individuals who patronised and supplied them,” he said.
Buratai attributed the civilian casualties to the tactics of insurgents, accusing them of deliberately operating within civilian environments. “It is deeply regrettable that innocent lives may have been caught in the strike, but the sole responsibility rests with the terrorists who deliberately embed themselves within civilian spaces as human shields,” he added.
He also called on residents of nearby communities, including Geidam, Gubio, Damasak, and Ngamdu—to avoid patronising markets linked to insurgent activity.
“Communities that continue to trade with insurgents will inevitably find themselves in harm’s way,” he warned, urging greater civilian cooperation with the military.
As of press time, the Nigerian military has not released an official breakdown of casualties or further operational details.
The incident has raised humanitarian concerns, with affected families seeking clarity and accountability.
Despite the controversy, Buratai urged continued public support for the armed forces. “While we mourn innocent lives lost, we must not weaken our resolve against an enemy that shows no mercy,” he said. “Victory is certain with continued military action and civilian cooperation.”
