The Federal Government has ordered an independent investigation into the Nigerian Air Force air strike on Jilli market in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this following reports that the strike on Sunday killed several civilians and injured many others. Amnesty International said more than 100 people may have died, while the military maintained the operation targeted suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
Mohammed Idris said the investigation will review the intelligence, targeting process and execution of the operation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. He stated that while the mission was intelligence driven and aimed at weakening insurgent activity, the Federal Government regrets the loss of civilian lives and remains committed to accountability.
The minister explained that the Jilli axis, also known as Kasu Daulaye, has long been identified as a stronghold for Boko Haram and ISWAP elements. He said recent intelligence indicated sustained militant activity in the area, including the arrest of a teenage courier linked to insurgents. Mohammed Idris also cited Babagana Zulum, who confirmed that Jilli and nearby markets had previously been shut due to insurgent control.
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Mohammed Idris added that the Federal Government is working with authorities in Borno and Yobe States, as well as emergency agencies, to provide relief to affected communities. He noted that counter terrorism efforts have recorded hundreds of convictions, according to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to security operations while urging residents to follow official advisories and avoid restricted areas.
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