NAF Begins Probe Of Alleged Civilian Casualties In Jilli Air Strike

13th April 2026 | News

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched an investigation into reports of civilian casualties following airstrikes near Jilli Market, close to Fuchimiram village in Geidam.

In a statement, NAF spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame said the force takes allegations of civilian harm seriously and has activated its Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to conduct a fact-finding mission at the scene.

The air force reiterated its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in all operations, noting that investigations would establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Earlier, NAF confirmed it carried out mop-up airstrikes in the Jilli axis as part of ongoing efforts to track and neutralise terrorist elements operating in the region. The strikes, it said, targeted fleeing insurgents and regrouping cells attempting to exploit the difficult terrain.

However, the military did not confirm whether civilians were affected.

Local sources reported that several people were feared dead, while many others sustained injuries when the suspected airstrikes hit the busy market during trading hours. Witnesses said victims were rushed to nearby medical facilities, including Geidam Specialist Hospital, where emergency units have been overwhelmed by the number of casualties.

Residents also claimed that a military jet had been tracking suspected Boko Haram fighters believed to be collecting levies from locals at the time of the incident.

Authorities say the investigation will determine the facts, as concerns grow over the impact of ongoing military operations on civilian populations in conflict-affected areas.