April 12, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed a series of precision air operations in the Jilli axis of Borno State, even as allegations of civilian deaths from a reported market bombing cast a shadow over the counter-terrorism campaign in the North-East.
The strikes, carried out under Operation Hadin Kai, were part of ongoing efforts to sustain pressure on insurgent groups and dismantle their operational networks across the region.
According to the NAF, the mission targeted fleeing terrorists and regrouping elements following earlier successful engagements that had weakened their positions.
However, the operation has drawn scrutiny following reports that a military jet may have accidentally struck a busy weekly market along the Borno–Yobe border on Friday.
The market, a major commercial hub, typically attracts traders and buyers from communities including Gubio, Chiweram, and Benisheikh in Borno State, as well as Gurokayeya and Geidam in Yobe State.
Eyewitness accounts and local sources alleged that more than 50 persons were killed in the incident, with several others injured and currently receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital in Geidam.
In its official response, the NAF did not acknowledge or confirm any civilian casualties. Instead, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, emphasised that the air strikes were intelligence-driven and executed in close coordination with ground forces.
“The follow-up strikes were executed based on credible intelligence and in close coordination with ground forces to deny terrorists freedom of movement and prevent further attacks.
“The operation formed part of a broader air-ground integration effort aimed at consolidating earlier gains recorded by friendly forces,” Ejodame said.
The Air Force further stated that the strikes led to the neutralisation of several insurgents and the destruction of their hideouts within the Jilli axis—an area long considered a strategic enclave for terrorist activity due to its difficult terrain.
Notably, the NAF’s statement was silent on the reported market incident, effectively distancing the service from claims of an accidental bombing of civilians, while stopping short of issuing a direct denial or clarification.
Military sources indicated that the operation was based on intelligence suggesting that suspected insurgents had infiltrated the market environment to collect levies and procure supplies, highlighting the complexities of conducting air operations in areas where combatants may be embedded within civilian populations.
Despite the controversy, the NAF reiterated its commitment to protecting civilian lives and maintaining operational precision.
“The NAF will continue to sustain momentum in ongoing operations to protect innocent lives, secure communities and restore lasting peace in the region,” Ejodame added.
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