A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jet mistakenly bombed civilians during a weekly market in the Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State on Saturday, leaving many feared dead, sources say.
- +Many feared dead as NAF jet mistakenly hits Borno weekly market
The incident occurred in the remote village of Jilli, which borders Yobe State.
The incident occurred in the remote village of Jilli, which borders Yobe State. BusinessDay understands the market attracts traders from several adjoining communities, including Giedam, Gubio, Chiweram, and Benisheikh.
Local sources stated that insurgents had visited the market to collect levies from traders and obtain supplies. The airstrike was carried out during a military operation in the area aimed at these groups.
A senior Yobe State government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that injured traders are receiving treatment at the Giedam General Hospital.
The use of heavy ordnance in a civilian trading area has resulted in significant casualties, according to witnesses. This latest incident in the northeast highlights the ongoing risks to civilians during air operations in the region.
NAF officials have not yet released a formal statement regarding the error. Further details are expected as investigations into the strike continue.
