Nigerian Air Force investigates reported civilian casualties after Jilli air strike

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched an investigation into reports that a recent air strike in Jilli, near the Borno–Yobe border, may have caused civilian casualties. The move follows growing local accounts that a strike targeting suspected insurgents may have hit a busy market, with several people feared killed or injured, although the military has not confirmed casualty figures.

According to a statement signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, the Chief of the Air Staff has ordered the immediate deployment of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to the area to carry out a fact-finding mission. He said the Air Force treats all reports of civilian harm with seriousness and empathy, stressing that protecting civilians remains central to its operations.

The incident reportedly occurred on 11 April during ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the Jilli axis, where the NAF said it had conducted precision strikes against terrorist positions as part of coordinated operations with ground troops. Local sources and emergency officials in Yobe State have since indicated that an accidental strike may have affected traders at a weekly market, prompting an emergency response and ongoing assessment of casualties.

The Air Force said it would work with relevant authorities and community representatives to establish the facts, urging the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue. It added that the service remains committed to transparency, accountability and the protection of both national security and civilian lives.