Air Force Probes Civilian Casualties After Borno Airstrike

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched an investigation into allegations of civilian casualties following an air strike in Jilli, Borno State.

In a statement on Sunday, NAF spokesman Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the incident was reported to have occurred on Saturday. He confirmed that reports suggested the strike might have hit a local market in Jilli, raising serious concerns about civilian harm.

The Chief of the Air Staff has ordered the immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell, which has been deployed to the location for a fact-finding mission.

“The Nigerian Air Force treats all reports of possible civilian harm with the utmost seriousness and empathy. The protection of innocent lives remains central to all NAF operations,” Mr Ejodame said.

He added that the service remained committed to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in its missions, and would work with authorities and community representatives to establish the facts.

While the investigation continues, he urged the public and media to avoid speculation and allow due process.

“The Nigerian Air Force reassures citizens of its resolve to protect national security and civilian lives. Every credible concern will be addressed with diligence and seriousness,” he stated.

Separately, The Peoples Gazette reported that recent air strikes in Yobe and Borno states against terrorists accidentally led to the deaths of over 200 civilians. The NAF has not yet commented on that specific report, which remains unverified by official sources.