The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency has confirmed that an airstrike hit a civilian market in Jilli, Gubio Local Government Area of Yobe State, leaving an unspecified number of people dead and injured.
The agency disclosed on Sunday that the incident occurred at the popular Jilli Saturday Market, a busy trading hub near Geidam, where traders, many from surrounding communities had gathered.
According to SEMA, the strike was accidental.
In a statement issued by the agency, it said emergency response operations had been activated on the directive of Governor Mai Mala Buni, with assessment teams already deployed to the affected area.
“The agency has received preliminary reports of an incident on Saturday evening at Jilli Saturday Market… which reportedly resulted in casualties affecting some traders,” the statement said.
While official casualty figures remain unclear, local sources claimed that at least 30 people may have been killed.
However, some international reports have put the death toll significantly higher, with figures as high as 200, claims authorities have neither confirmed nor endorsed.
The air force acknowledged carrying out what it described as “precision airstrikes” in the Jilli axis under ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, a military campaign targeting insurgent groups in the North-East.
However, it has yet to directly address reports of civilian casualties resulting from the operation.
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SEMA said it was working with security agencies and health authorities to determine the full extent of the damage and provide immediate humanitarian support to victims.
The agency also warned against the spread of unverified information, especially concerning casualty figures, urging the public to remain calm as investigations continue.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families and the entire community at this difficult time,” the statement added.
