Govt Clarifies Jilli Bombing, Blames Boko Haram Presence in Market

The Yobe State Government has defended the recent airstrike on Jilli market, stating that the location was identified as a stronghold of Boko Haram insurgents.

The government said the operation was carried out by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai as part of ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the North-East.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Dahiru Abdulsalam, Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Yobe State Governor, said the strike was not targeted at civilians.

“The attention of Yobe State Government has been drawn to online reports suggesting an attack on the people of Gaidam Local Government Area,” the statement read.

“It has become necessary to set the records straight. The Air Component of the Joint Task Force (Northeast), Operation HADIN KAI, conducted an air strike mission on Jilli (a Boko Haram stronghold) of Gubio Local Government Area in Borno State, yesterday Saturday, 11th April 2025.”

According to Abdulsalam, some residents of Geidam Local Government Area in Yobe State were affected by the incident due to their presence at the market.

“However, some people from Geidam LGA bordering Gubio LGA in Borno State who went to the Jilli weekly market were affected,” he said.

He added that the victims have since been evacuated for medical attention.

“They have been evacuated to Geidam Specialist Hospital and are responding to treatment,” Abdulsalam stated.

While the government maintained that the strike was aimed at insurgent elements, concerns remain over civilian casualties, as authorities reiterate their commitment to restoring peace and intensifying efforts against insurgency in the region.