Nigerian Air Force Launches Probe Into Alleged Civilian Casualties in Yobe Airstrikes

The Nigerian Air Force has opened an investigation into reports that civilians may have been killed or injured during recent air operations near Jilli Market in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State, in what has raised fresh concerns over military operations in populated areas.

The incident, which reportedly occurred around Jilli Market near Fuchimiram village, has triggered questions about the accuracy of the strikes and the safety of residents in conflict-prone communities in Nigeria’s North-East.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it treats all allegations of civilian harm with “utmost seriousness and empathy,” adding that a special investigative team has already been deployed to the scene.

The probe is being coordinated through the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell), which has been directed by the Chief of Air Staff to carry out a fact-finding mission into the circumstances surrounding the operation.

NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, reaffirmed the service’s commitment to professionalism and accountability, insisting that transparency remains central to its operational conduct.

While confirming that airstrikes were carried out in the Jilli axis, the Air Force did not state whether any civilian casualties were recorded during the operation. It explained that the mission was part of ongoing efforts to target and neutralise terrorist elements operating in the region.

The strikes, according to the military, followed intensified operations aimed at disrupting insurgent networks believed to be active across parts of Yobe and neighbouring Borno State.

However, local accounts paint a more troubling picture. Residents said the incident occurred at a busy market period, with traders conducting normal business activities when the strikes reportedly hit the area.

Eyewitnesses claimed that several people were killed or injured, with victims rushed to Geidam Specialist Hospital, where medical staff struggled to cope with the influx of casualties.

One local source suggested that the air operation may have been targeting suspected Boko Haram fighters allegedly moving through the area before the market incident occurred.

Jilli, a border community near Damasak in Borno State, lies more than 200 kilometres from Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, and has witnessed repeated insecurity linked to insurgent activity.

As investigations begin, the Air Force says it remains “firmly committed to professionalism, accountability, and transparency,” while residents await clarity on what exactly happened during the operation.