The Yobe State Government has clarified that the recent air strike on Jilli market targeted a Boko Haram stronghold in neighbouring Borno State, not civilians.
The clarification follows reports that several civilians were killed and injured after a military air raid along the Borno–Yobe border.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Dahiru Abdulsalam, Special Adviser on Security Matters to Governor Mai Mala Buni, said the operation was carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai.
According to him, the mission specifically targeted Jilli, a known Boko Haram enclave located in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.
“The attention of the Yobe State Government has been drawn to online reports suggesting an attack on residents of Geidam Local Government Area,” the statement said.
“It has become necessary to set the record straight. The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai conducted an air strike mission on Jilli, a Boko Haram stronghold, on Saturday, April 11, 2025.”
Abdulsalam, however, confirmed that some civilians from Geidam LGA in Yobe State were affected by the incident.
He explained that the victims had travelled across the border to attend the weekly market in Jilli when the strike occurred.
“Some people from Geidam LGA bordering Gubio LGA in Borno State who went to the Jilli weekly market were affected,” he said.
The government added that those injured have been evacuated to Geidam Specialist Hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment.
The incident has raised concerns about civilian safety in conflict zones, particularly in areas where communities frequently cross borders for trade and daily activities.
