Atiku Questions Value of Nigerian Lives After Accidental Airstrike on Market

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has voiced strong condemnation following an airstrike that tragically killed several traders at Jilli market.

Daily Trust previously reported that the Nigerian Air Force jets, while aiming at insurgents, mistakenly opened fire on traders in the market, located near the border of Yobe and Borno States.

Abubakar described the incident as a profound failure that should provoke widespread outrage among Nigerians. He highlighted that the attack, intended for insurgents, once again resulted in innocent civilians becoming casualties, thereby reigniting serious concerns about the safety of citizens during ongoing military operations.

The former presidential candidate raised questions about the recurring instances of civilian deaths in counter-insurgency efforts. He pondered how long Nigerians would have to endure being unsafe from both terrorist threats and the very operations meant to ensure their security.

Drawing a comparison to international military standards, Atiku referenced a recent US operation where over 150 aircraft and an estimated $300 million were utilized to rescue a single pilot. He used this to illustrate the significant value placed on an individual citizen's life in other contexts.

“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience. While targeting insurgents, innocent Nigerians were once again reduced to collateral damage,” he stated.

“How long will citizens remain unsafe both from terrorists and from the very operations meant to protect them? Just a few days ago, the United States deployed over 150 aircraft and spent an estimated $300 million to rescue just one pilot in Iran, even destroying equipment worth over $100 million each to protect a single life. That is the value they place on one citizen.

“Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives? This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence. My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizen. That is the ultimate essence of National Security.”