The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has defended the Nigerian military following the airstrike on Jilli, insisting that the affected market had been officially closed years before the incident.
The airstrike, carried out by the Nigerian Air Force under counter-insurgency operations, targeted suspected militants in the Jilli axis, a border community between Borno and Yobe states. The development has, however, sparked concern after reports of civilian casualties.
Read: Death Toll Rises to 56 in Borno-Yobe Market NAF Airstrike
Meanwhile, the death toll from the airstrike has reportedly risen to about 200, according to local officials and residents.
Early figures had placed the casualties far lower, but as search and recovery efforts continued, more bodies were discovered at the scene and nearby areas. A local councillor and multiple witnesses said the scale of the tragedy became clearer hours after the strike, which occurred during peak trading activities. While authorities have yet to issue a definitive official figure, independent reports indicate that the number of victims could be significantly higher than initial estimates.
Reacting to the incident, Zulum said the state government had shut down the market due to its alleged use by insurgents and their collaborators.
“I have been properly briefed on the airstrike carried out on Jilli,” the governor said. “Let me state categorically that the Borno State Government closed Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago.”
According to him, the market had been identified as a location frequently used by insurgents and their supply networks, prompting its closure as part of broader efforts to curb insecurity in the region.
The governor noted that his administration works closely with security agencies before reopening markets or resettling communities affected by insurgency, stressing that such decisions are taken with caution.
He also disclosed that consultations were ongoing with authorities in Yobe State and security agencies over the incident.
Zulum reaffirmed his support for the armed forces, emphasizing that collaboration between the state government and the military remains crucial to restoring peace in the North-East.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid aiding insurgent activities, while calling on communities to provide credible intelligence to support ongoing operations.
The airstrike has continued to draw reactions, with growing concern over civilian safety in areas where counter-insurgency efforts are ongoing.