Nigerian air strike kills dozens in Jilli village market

Dozens of people are feared dead following a Nigerian military air strike on a market in Jilli village, Yobe state, while pursuing Boko Haram militants. Amnesty International reported that more than 100 individuals were killed and 35 others wounded in the attack that occurred recently. Local chief Lawan Zanna Nur Geidam stated, "the total casualties, dead and injured, is around 200." The strike targeted the Jilli market, a location frequented by civilians.

The Nigerian Air Force claimed it successfully targeted Boko Haram fighters in the Jilli area but did not acknowledge the civilian casualties. Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam, military adviser to the Yobe state government, confirmed that the air strike was conducted near a market, stating, "Some people from Geidam LGA... who went to the Jilli weekly market, were affected." The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency activated an emergency response following preliminary reports of casualties.

Amnesty International condemned the air strike, asserting that such actions are not legitimate law enforcement methods and highlight a "shocking disregard for the lives of those it supposedly exists to protect." The organization called for an immediate and impartial investigation into the incident.

Power Read: This incident exposes the Nigerian military's operational challenges and raises questions about its engagement rules in civilian areas. The air strike's high civilian toll may undermine the military's credibility and complicate its counterinsurgency efforts against Boko Haram. With international scrutiny increasing, the Nigerian government faces pressure to reform its military tactics and ensure accountability for such actions.

What to watch: The response from Nigerian authorities regarding the investigation into the air strike and any potential changes to military engagement protocols.