…Says independent probe of civilian casualties underway
The federal government Tuesday clarified that the airstrikes carried out by the Nigerian Air force Operation HADIN KAI at Jilli Market, located between Gubio and Geidam local government areas of Borno and Yobe states, was based on credible intelligence, and not an indiscriminate attack.
It said the area had been designated a high-risk zone with clear security advisories restricting civilian presence.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, who disclosed this in a personally signed statement made available to journalists in Abuja, condoled with the families of civilians affected by the airstrikes.
“The Government extends its deepest condolences to the families of those affected and sympathises with the injured. Every Nigerian life is sacred, and any loss of civilian life is deeply regretted,” he said.
According to the minister, the operation followed sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
“The Jilli axis, locally known as ‘Kasu Daulaye’ (the terrorists’ market), has long functioned as an insurgent-controlled enclave. Intelligence confirmed that Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives used the area to collect levies, procure supplies, and coordinate attacks,” he said.
The minister noted that the assessment was reinforced on 12 April 2026, when troops apprehended a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, Tijjani, in Ngamdu.
The teenager, the minister said, “admitted moving funds and logistics between Jilli and other locations, highlighting the depth of terrorist activity in the area and the exploitation of civilians, including minors.
“Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also confirmed that Jilli and Gazabure markets had been officially closed five years ago due to insurgent control, describing the area as a known hub for terrorist operations. This aligns with intelligence that informed the strike.”
Idris added that the Bindul–Jilli axis has consistently been identified as a major terrorist corridor.
According to him, in January 2026, troops suffered casualties from an IED attack along the route, while coordinated attacks in Ngamdu and Benisheikh on 9 April were linked to the same network.
He said the 11 April strike followed weeks of surveillance in response to escalating threats.
“After a rigorous targeting process, the Nigerian Air Force, working with the Nigerian Army, confirmed the presence of terrorist elements and executed the strike to disrupt supply lines and degrade insurgent capacity,” Idris said.
The minister however, disclosed that the federal government had ordered a full and independent investigation into the incident.
“This will review intelligence, targeting, and execution, and we will address any gaps and ensure accountability where needed.
“The protection of civilian lives remains a core obligation of the Armed Forces,” he said.
Idris further revealed that the government was working with the Borno and Yobe State Governments, as well as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) of the two states, to provide humanitarian support to affected families, adding that operational safeguards will also be strengthened.
He urged civilians “to strictly observe security advisories, avoid restricted zones, and cooperate with security agencies, noting that “public cooperation is essential in conflict areas.
He also called on the media to act with responsibility in reporting security matters.”
“In times of crisis, unverified reporting can mislead the public, embolden terrorists, and undermine national efforts.
“The Federal Government stresses that press freedom must be matched with responsibility. The public deserves verified and accurate information, especially on matters of national security,” he said.
