The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has launched an investigation into alleged civilian casualties following an air strike in Jilli, Borno.
In a statement on Sunday, spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the incident was reported to have occurred on Saturday.
Ejodame said reports suggested the strike might have hit a local market in Jilli, raising concerns about civilian casualties.
He said the Chief of the Air Staff had ordered the immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell.
According to him, the cell has been deployed to the location on a fact-finding mission into the allegations.
“The Nigerian Air Force treats all reports of possible civilian harm with the utmost seriousness and empathy.
“The protection of innocent lives remains central to all NAF operations,” he said.
Ejodame said the service remained committed to professionalism, accountability and transparency in its missions.
He added that the force would work with authorities and community representatives to establish the facts.
While the investigation continues, he urged the public and media to avoid speculation and allow due process.
“The Nigerian Air Force reassures citizens of its resolve to protect national security and civilian lives.
“Every credible concern will be addressed with diligence and seriousness,” he said. (NAN)
Amnesty International condemns ‘reckless use of deadly force’
In a swift reaction to the Yobe state airstrike tragedy that occured on Saturday, Amnesty International has condemned the incident, alleging that more than 100 people were killed in the airstrike at Jalli Futchimiram in Geidam Local Government Area of the state.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the military air strike that killed over 100 people at Jalli Futchimiram Geidam local government area of Yobe state,” the organization said.
According to the group, witnesses reported that multiple aircraft were involved in the attack.
“Witnesses said three military jets fired on the market on Saturday. Emergency section of Geidam General Hospital had so far received 35 people with severe injuries.”
The human rights organization criticized the use of air raids in civilian areas, describing it as unlawful and dangerous.
“Launching air raids is not a legitimate law enforcement method by anyone’s standard. Such reckless use of deadly force is unlawful, outrageous and lays bare the Nigerian military’s shocking disregard for the lives of those it supposedly exists to protect.”
Atiku demands probe over NAF airstrike killing in Yobe
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the deadly airstrike on Jilli market in Geidam Local Government Area of the state on Saturday, describing the incident as tragic and demanding urgent accountability.
The airstrike, which reportedly killed scores of traders and injured many others, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about civilian safety during military operations in Nigeria’s North-East.
Reacting to the incident, Atiku described the airstrike as a devastating failure that demands urgent review and accountability.
“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience,” Atiku said.
He lamented that innocent Nigerians continue to be caught in the crossfire of security operations meant to protect them.
“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.
Drawing a comparison with international rescue efforts, Atiku noted:
“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. That is the value they place on one citizen.”
He further questioned the value placed on Nigerian lives.
“Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives? This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence.”
The former Vice President also extended condolences to victims and their families.
“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.”
