Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has reacted to the airstrike at Jilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border, describing the operation as a targeted military action based on credible intelligence.
More than 50 people were reported killed in the strike, with several others injured.
Buratai acknowledged the loss of lives, describing it as tragic, but commended the Nigerian Air Force for what he called its intelligence, courage, and professionalism in carrying out the operation in an area he described as a terrorist stronghold.
“The public should understand the history ofJilli Market. It has long been a notorious terrorist logistics hub,” Buratai said.
He continued, “The Nigerian Army repeatedly raided and shut it down. In 2018, during Operation LAST HOLD, our troops occupied the area and engaged in multiple clashes with insurgents.
“Despite several closures, the terrorists continued to operate the market with the cooperation of some individuals who patronised and supplied them.
“It is deeply regrettable that innocent lives may have been caught in the strike, but the sole responsibility rests with the terrorists who deliberately embed themselves within civilian spaces as human shields.
“No military wishes to harm civilians, but when a market is dominated by terrorist logistics and warnings have been ignored for years, the military has a duty to act.
“I appeal to the people of Geidam, Gubio, Damasak, and Ngamdu to cooperate with the military. Stop patronising or supplying goods to any market where terrorists establish or frequent. Communities that continue to trade with insurgents will inevitably find themselves in harm’s way.
“The armed forces deserve our support. They acted on solid intelligence and struck a legitimate target. While we mourn innocent lives lost, we must not weaken our resolve against an enemy that shows no mercy.
“Victory is certain with continued military action and civilian cooperation. May the souls of the departed innocent rest in peace, and may the injured recover swiftly.
“The military deserves our unwavering support. They acted based on credible intelligence and targeted a legitimate objective. Although we grieve for the innocent lives that have been lost, we must not allow our determination to falter against an adversary that exhibits no compassion.
“Success is assured with ongoing military efforts and the collaboration of civilians. May the souls of the innocent who have departed find eternal peace, and may those who are injured experience a swift recovery.”
