Nigerian Army justifies Jilli Village airstrike amid civilian death reports

Sheikh Gumi calls for Senate probe into military airstrikes after reported civilian casualties

Islamic cleric Sheikh Gumi has called for a Senate probe into recent military airstrikes, stating that condolences are insufficient following reported civilian casualties. In a Facebook post, Gumi questioned the conduct of military operations and demanded accountability, asking, "Who are the pilots behind these bomb releases on innocent locals?" He cited incidents in Tudun Biri, Nasarawa, and Sokoto, and referred to past accidental military airstrikes, including the December 2023 Tudun Biri bombing in Kaduna State, which resulted in significant civilian casualties. Gumi asserted that "Terror cannot be fought with another terror" and urged an immediate Senate hearing on these "mistakes" involving the bombing of villages, markets, and civilian targets. His comments followed a reported airstrike on a weekly market in Jilli village, along the Borno State and Yobe State border. However, Babagana Zulum stated that the Jilli market in Gubio Local Government Area had been closed for five years and described the area as a hub for insurgents. Reports indicated that at least 30 people were killed and over 20 hospitalized in the Jilli incident. Eyewitnesses claimed multiple fighter jets were involved, and sources suggested the strike may have targeted suspected Boko Haram insurgents but hit the crowded market instead. Abdulsalam Dahiru, Special Adviser to the Yobe State Governor on Security Matters, confirmed the incident, clarifying Jilli village is in Borno State. Gumi, known for engag