At least 56 people have been reported killed following a bombing on a crowded weekly market in Jilli village, located along the border between Borno State and Yobe State, in Nigeria’s conflict-affected North-East.
The strike, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, reportedly targeted suspected insurgents linked to Boko Haram. However, multiple local accounts indicate that the bombs instead hit civilian areas within the market, which was at peak activity at the time.
Jilli Market serves as a key commercial hub for surrounding communities, drawing traders and buyers from nearby towns across both states.
Conflicting Casualty Figures as Rescue Efforts Continue
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos after fighter jets were seen hovering over the area shortly before explosions were heard. One local source claimed to have counted at least 56 bodies, warning that the toll could rise as more victims are recovered.
Medical personnel in nearby Geidam confirmed that injured victims were taken to local health facilities, with some referred to hospitals in Damaturu due to the severity of their injuries.
Local officials have not released a definitive casualty figure, noting that several of those initially hospitalised later died, further increasing the death toll.
Authorities Acknowledge Incident, Investigation Expected
A security adviser to the Yobe State government confirmed the incident but clarified that the affected community falls within Borno State’s administrative jurisdiction.
As of the time of reporting, the Nigerian Air Force has not issued an official statement on the strike or the reported civilian casualties.
The incident has triggered renewed concern over the risks civilians face during military operations in insurgency-hit areas, where armed groups often blend into local populations.
Security analysts note that such environments complicate target identification and increase the likelihood of accidental civilian harm, underscoring the need for stricter operational safeguards and accountability mechanisms.
