Tragedy in Nigeria: Air Force Strike on Market Leaves Up to 200 Feared Dead
As many as 200 people are feared dead, with dozens injured, after a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrike mistakenly struck a crowded weekly market on Saturday.
The incident occurred at Jilli Market, a major trading hub located between Gubio Local Government Area in Borno State and Geidam Local Government Area in Yobe State. The market typically attracts traders and buyers from surrounding communities.
According to eyewitnesses and local officials, fighter jets operating under Operation Hadin Kai launched the strike targeting suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters believed to be active in the area.
However, the bombs reportedly missed their intended targets and instead hit the civilian market.
Multiple explosions tore through the crowded trading ground, sending traders and buyers fleeing in panic. Eyewitnesses described scenes of widespread devastation, with bodies scattered across the area and many victims trapped under debris.
Victims were rushed to the Specialist Hospital in Geidam, where at least 14 injured persons are currently receiving treatment. Several others have reportedly been referred to Damaturu due to the severity of their injuries.
While initial eyewitness counts confirmed at least 56 bodies, local sources warn that the true death toll could be significantly higher, with some estimates placing it at up to 200 fatalities as recovery efforts continue.
As of Sunday afternoon, the Nigerian Air Force and Defence Headquarters have yet to issue an official statement addressing the incident or confirming civilian casualties.
The Borno–Yobe border remains a volatile frontline in Nigeria’s ongoing counter-insurgency campaign, where civilian populations continue to face deadly risks as insurgents operate within and around local communities.
This is a developing story. Casualty figures are expected to be updated as more information emerges.
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