The Nigerian Air Force has ordered an investigation into reports of civilian casualties following a recent airstrike in Jilli, a community located along the Borno–Yobe border.
According to official statements, the airstrike carried out on April 11, 2026 was part of ongoing military operations targeting insurgents in the North-East. However, reports later emerged that the strike may have hit a local market, raising concerns about civilian deaths and injuries.
In response, the Chief of the Air Staff directed the immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to conduct a fact-finding mission and determine the extent of the damage.
The Air Force stated that it treats all reports of civilian harm with “utmost seriousness,” emphasising that the protection of innocent lives remains a core principle of its operations.
Preliminary accounts from local sources suggest that the incident may have resulted in significant casualties, with fears that dozens of civilians could have been affected during the strike on the busy market.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation is ongoing, assuring that findings will be handled with transparency and accountability.
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