Over 50 feared killed in suspected accidental Military airstrikes at Borno–Yobe border market— Report

No fewer than 56 people are feared dead, with at least 14 others injured, following a reported airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force on a weekly market along the Borno–Yobe border on Saturday.

The incident occurred at Jilli Market, located between Gubio and Geidam Local Government Areas of Borno and Yobe states, where traders and buyers had gathered for routine business activities.

According to a report by Daily Trust, the strike was believed to have been carried out during a military operation targeting suspected Boko Haram insurgents.

The market typically attracts residents from nearby communities, including Gubio, Chiweram and Benisheikh in Borno State, as well as Gurokayeya and Geidam in Yobe State.

Citing multiple sources, the newspaper reported that the fighter jet involved in the operation was tracking suspected insurgents who had allegedly visited the market to collect levies and obtain supplies. However, the strike reportedly missed its intended target.

An eyewitness said at least 56 bodies had been recovered, while 14 injured victims were receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital in Geidam, Yobe State.

“The incident happened around 2:46 p.m. while business activities were ongoing. Four fighter jets carried out the attack, though the fourth jet was not clearly visible. We only heard the sound of explosions.

“I counted 56 bodies myself and helped rescue two injured persons, taking them to the hospital. I believe the casualty figure may rise, as more bodies are still being recovered,” the source said.

The councillor of Fichimaram Ward, Lawan Zanna, also confirmed the incident, stating that about 20 victims were admitted to the Specialist Hospital in Geidam.

“The attack occurred at Jilli village’s weekly market under Fichimaram Ward in Geidam LGA. From the information available to us, it was an airstrike.

“When the jets struck, people panicked and tried to flee, but the bombardment continued. As we speak, over 30 people have been killed.

“More than 20 persons were hospitalised in Geidam, with two referred to the Teaching Hospital in Damaturu. Of those receiving treatment, nine have died, bringing the death toll to over 30,” he said.

The Special Adviser to the Yobe State Governor on Security Matters, Abdulsalam Dahiru, confirmed the incident but noted that it occurred within Borno State.

“I have spoken with the chairman of Geidam Local Government, who informed me that Jilli village falls under Gubio LGA of Borno State. You may contact officials in Maiduguri for further clarification,” he said.

As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Air Force has not issued an official statement on the incident.