Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has ordered an investigation into the alleged killing of over 100 people at Jilli market in Yobe State.
Aneke gave the order on Sunday, according to a statement by the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
He explained that the Service treats all reports of possible civilian harm with the utmost seriousness and empathy, as the protection of innocent lives remains central to all NAF operations.
TheFact Daily had earlier reported that the accidental killing of the innocent citizens which happened around 2:46 p.m., at the Jilli Market was suspected to have been carried out during a military operation targeting suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
With Amnesty International Nigeria, calling on Nigerian authorities to immediately and impartially investigate the incident and ensure that suspected perpetrators are held to account.
However, the NAF said it has taken note of reports alleging that an air strike conducted on Saturday, 11 April 2026, may have affected a local market in Jilli, resulting in civilian casualties.
It said “in line with this commitment, the CAS has directed an immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to immediately proceed to the location on a fact-finding mission on the allegation.”
The NAF said it remains firmly committed to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in the conduct of its missions, and would work closely with relevant authorities and community representatives to establish the facts.
It said “while this process is ongoing, the Service respectfully urges the public and the media to refrain from speculation and allow the review to proceed without prejudice.”
The NAF reassured all citizens of its steadfast resolve to protect both national security and civilian lives, while ensuring that every credible concern is addressed with the diligence and seriousness it deserves.
