Buratai justifies Jilli airstrikes, insists market was terrorists’ base

A former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, has described the recent airstrike on Jilli Market as a necessary military action against a terrorist stronghold.

Mr Buratai, in a statement on Sunday, said the strike was based on credible intelligence indicating that Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters were using the market for logistics and operations.

He acknowledged reports of civilian casualties, noting that the loss of the innocent lives was painful and deeply regrettable.

The former army chief, however, commended the Nigerian Air Force and intelligence agencies for what he described as courage and professionalism in executing the operation.

According to him, Jilli market has a long history as a terrorist logistics hub in spite of repeated military raids and closures over the years.

He recalled that troops had occupied the area during Operation LAST HOLD in 2018, engaging insurgents in several encounters.

Mr Buratai noted that terrorists continued to exploit the market with the cooperation of some individuals who patronised and supplied them.

He stressed that insurgents often embed within civilian populations, using them as shields, thereby complicating military operations.

“No military wishes to harm civilians, but when such locations are persistently used by terrorists, action becomes necessary,” he said.

He urged residents of Geidam, Gubio, Damasak and Ngamdu to desist from trading in markets linked to insurgent activities.

According to him, communities that continue such interactions risk exposure to military operations targeting terrorists.

Mr Buratai therefore called for sustained public support for the armed forces, emphasising that decisive action remained key to ending insurgency.

He added that while the nation mourned the innocent victims, it must remained resolute in confronting terrorists.

He also prayed for the repose of the souls of those who died and speedy recovery for the injured.

NAN