Airstrike Hits Yobe Market, Scores Feared Dead

Dozens of traders and buyers are feared dead following a reported airstrike at Jilli Market in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State, according to local sources and victims.

The incident was said to have occurred on Saturday evening in Jilli Market, located in Fucchimiram Ward of Geidam LGA, a border community near Borno State.

Preliminary and unconfirmed reports suggest that a military fighter jet was pursuing suspected Boko Haram insurgents believed to be operating within the area. The insurgents were reportedly tracking into the market to collect levies from residents when the strike occurred.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that casualties may be significantly high, with some sources claiming that over 200 people could have been killed. Bodies were reportedly found scattered in surrounding bushes, while several injured victims were evacuated to nearby medical facilities.

Some of the wounded are currently receiving treatment in Damaturu and parts of Borno State.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities of the Nigerian Air Force have yet to confirm the incident or provide official casualty figures.

Jilli community, which shares proximity with Damasak in Borno State, lies more than 200 kilometres from Damaturu, the Yobe State capital and it is also known as a terrorist enclave and not a market as claimed by some fourth columnists wanting to discredit the Airforce/Armed Forces .

The exact number of casualties remains unclear, as investigations are expected to provide further details.