Gumi Demands Probe Into NAF Airstrike That Killed Dozens

Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, has called for an urgent investigation into the Nigerian Air Force airstrike that reportedly killed more than 50 civilians at a weekly market in Jilli village along the Borno–Yobe border.

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Naija News reports that Gumi made the call in a Facebook post on Sunday while reacting to reports of the bombing, which occurred during peak trading hours at the market.

The cleric questioned the accountability of those responsible for the air operation, asking who authorised and executed the bombing that allegedly hit civilians.

“Who are the pilots behind these bomb releases on innocent locals?” he asked.

Gumi argued that such incidents raise serious concerns about operational oversight and the protection of civilian lives during counter-terrorism operations.

He also referenced previous airstrike incidents, including the Tudun Biri bombing, as well as reported strikes in Nasarawa and Sokoto, describing them as part of a troubling pattern affecting non-combatants.

“Tudun biri, Nasarawa attack on herdsmen trailer, Sokoto attack etc are just the few ones recorded,” he said.

According to him, terrorism cannot be defeated through actions that harm innocent civilians.

“Terror cannot be fought with another terror,” he added.

Gumi urged the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, to conduct hearings into what he described as repeated “mistakes” involving the bombing of villages, markets and other civilian locations.

He further stated, “There should be an immediate Senate hearings on these so-called ‘mistakes’ on bombing villages, markets and civilians targets.

“We need answers, not condolences.”

Reports indicated that the airstrike occurred on Saturday evening at Jilli market, a busy weekly trading hub serving communities along the Borno–Yobe border.

Eyewitnesses said multiple fighter jets participated in the operation.

Authorities have indicated that the operation was intended to target terrorist elements operating in the area.