The Nigerian Air Force has begun an investigation into reports that a recent airstrike in the North-East may have resulted in civilian casualties.
The airstrike, carried out on Saturday, April 11, 2026, was said to have hit a local market in Jilli community, sparking concerns over possible loss of civilian lives.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the force treats allegations of civilian harm with “utmost seriousness and empathy.”
He added that the Chief of the Air Staff had ordered the immediate deployment of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell to the area to verify the claims.
According to the statement, the investigative team has been tasked with conducting a fact-finding mission to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“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 operations,” the statement noted.
The Air Force also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability and transparency, stressing that it would work with relevant authorities and community representatives during the investigation.
It urged members of the public and the media to avoid speculation while the probe is ongoing.
The development comes amid intensified military operations against insurgents in parts of the North-East.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that several persons may have been killed after the airstrike allegedly struck a busy weekly market in Jilli village, located along the border between Borno and Yobe states.
A local councillor, Lawan Zannah, reportedly confirmed that dozens of people lost their lives in the incident, which caused panic among traders and residents.
Also, the Special Adviser to the Yobe State Governor on Security Matters, Abdulsalam Dahiru (retd.), acknowledged the incident but clarified that Jilli community falls within Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.
Further details are expected as the investigation progresses.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Air Force had yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
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