Breaking: Nigerian Air Force Airstrike Hits Jilli Market: 56 Confirmed Dead, Death Toll May Exceed 200
Maiduguri/Geidam — April 12, 2026 — At least 56 persons, largely traders, have been confirmed dead following a Nigerian Air Force airstrike that hit a crowded weekly market along the Borno–Yobe border on Saturday.
The incident occurred at Jilli Market, a major commercial hub situated between Gubio in Borno State and Geidam in Yobe State. PulseNets learnt that four fighter jets participated in the operation, which was reportedly aimed at suspected Boko Haram insurgents believed to have infiltrated the market to collect levies and supplies from traders.
Eyewitness accounts and local authorities indicate that the strike failed to hit its intended targets and instead struck civilians, leading to significant casualties. Residents who spoke to PulseNets described scenes of chaos as traders and buyers attempted to escape, even as the bombardment reportedly continued.
A local councillor, Malam Lawan Zanna, confirmed the incident and stated that he personally counted 56 lifeless bodies while assisting in evacuating victims to medical facilities. He warned that the number of fatalities could increase, as recovery efforts remain ongoing. Between 14 and 20 injured persons were taken to the Specialist Hospital in Geidam, with some later dying from their wounds.
The Security Adviser to the Yobe State Governor, Brigadier General Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd), acknowledged the development but clarified to PulseNets that the market falls within Borno State territory.
Separate reports obtained by PulseNets, including testimonies from residents who spoke to international media, suggest the death toll could be far higher, possibly exceeding 200. Descriptions of the aftermath point to a “devastating” scene, with several victims still unaccounted for.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Nigerian Air Force nor Defence Headquarters has released an official statement addressing the airstrike.
Context of the Operation
PulseNets reported that the airstrike formed part of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in Nigeria’s North-East. Military sources indicated that the jets were tracking Boko Haram elements allegedly using the market as a logistics and extortion base. However, the outcome has reignited concerns over intelligence precision and operational conduct in civilian-populated areas.
This development adds to a pattern of previous incidents where military airstrikes in the region resulted in civilian casualties, drawing sustained criticism from human rights organisations and affected communities.
Public Reactions
The incident has triggered widespread outrage, with increasing calls for accountability and transparency. Citizens and advocacy groups are demanding an independent investigation, full disclosure of casualty figures, and adequate compensation for victims’ families.
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Civil society organisations have described the strike as “another avoidable tragedy,” urging the military to strengthen coordination mechanisms and adopt measures that reduce collateral damage during anti-terror operations.
The development comes amid intensified offensives against Boko Haram and ISWAP, yet it underscores persistent concerns about the human cost associated with these military campaigns.
Further updates are expected as rescue operations continue and authorities release verified figures.
