No fewer than 56 individuals, predominantly traders, are feared to have lost their lives, with an additional 14 admitted to the hospital, following an aerial bombardment at a market situated along the Borno-Yobe state boundary.
The incident took place on Saturday at Jilli Market, an area spanning Gubio and Geidam Local Government Areas in Borno and Yobe states, respectively.
The airstrike is believed to have occurred during a military operation aimed at neutralizing suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
The weekly market is a popular hub for traders and customers from surrounding communities, including Gubio, Chiweram, and Benisheikh in Borno State, and Gurokayeya and Geidam in Yobe State.
According to multiple sources, the fighter jet involved was reportedly tracking a group of suspected insurgents who were said to be at the market to collect levies from vendors and procure supplies. However, the strike reportedly missed its intended targets.
An eyewitness account suggests that at least 56 people have been confirmed deceased, while 14 others are currently undergoing treatment at the Specialist Hospital in Geidam, Yobe State.
"The event occurred around 2:46 p.m. while commercial activities were active. Four fighter jets were involved, though the fourth was not clearly visible. We only heard the sounds of explosions.
"I personally counted 56 bodies and assisted in rescuing two injured individuals, transporting them to the hospital. I suspect the casualty count might be higher as more bodies are still being retrieved," the source stated.
Malam Lawan Zanna, the councillor for Fichimaram Ward, confirmed the incident to Daily Trust, indicating that approximately 20 individuals were admitted to the Specialist Hospital in Geidam.
"The incident happened at the weekly market in Jilli village, within Fichimaram Ward of Geidam LGA. Information available to us points to an airstrike.
"When the jets began their assault, people ran in panic, but the strikes persisted. As of now, more than 30 people have been killed.
"Over 20 individuals were hospitalized in Geidam. Two were transferred to the Teaching Hospital in Damaturu. Nine of those receiving treatment have since passed away, increasing the total death toll to over 30," he reported.
Brigadier General Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd), the Special Adviser to the Yobe State Governor on Security Matters, acknowledged the incident but clarified that it occurred within Borno State.
"I have conferred with the chairman of Geidam Local Government, who informed me that Jilli village falls under Gubio LGA in Borno State. You may wish to contact officials in Maiduguri for additional details," he advised.
As of the time of this report, the Nigerian Air Force has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
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