The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced an investigation into claims that an airstrike conducted on Saturday, April 11, 2026, may have affected a local market in Jilli, allegedly resulting in civilian casualties.
In a statement on Sunday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said it takes all reports of possible civilian harm with “utmost seriousness and empathy,” stressing that the protection of innocent lives remains central to its operations.
According to the statement, the chief of the Air Staff has requested that the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell be activated immediately and dispatched to the location on a fact-finding mission to determine the validity of the claims.
“The Service treats all reports of possible civilian harm with the utmost seriousness and empathy, as the protection of innocent lives remains central to all NAF operations.
“In line with this commitment, the CAS has directed an immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to immediately proceed to the location on a fact-finding mission on the allegation,” the statement read.
The NAF reiterated its commitment to professionalism, responsibility, and transparency and stated that it would work with relevant authorities and community leaders throughout the investigation.
While the investigation is ongoing, the Air Force has encouraged the public and media to refrain from speculation and allow the review process to progress impartially.
The development comes amid ongoing counter-terrorism operations in parts of the North-East, where the military has intensified air and ground offensives against insurgent groups.
The move comes as counter-terrorism operations in portions of the North-East continue, with the military intensifying air and ground offensives against insurgents.
Chronicle NG reports that many people are feared killed after a military airstrike struck a weekly market at Jilli village, located along the border between Borno State and Yobe State, on Saturday evening.
The incident, which took place in Yobe State’s famed Jilli Market between Gubio and Geidam, reportedly caused fear among traders and residents when explosions rocked the busy trading center.
