Several civilians are feared dead and many others injured following a reported airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force along the border between Borno and Yobe states.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening at Dilli Market in Yobe State, a bustling commercial hub situated near Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State. The market is known for attracting traders and buyers from surrounding communities, including Geidam, Gubio, the Chibok axis, and Benisheikh.
Confirming the development, the Public Relations Officer of the Yobe State Police Command, Dungus Abdulkarim, stated that authorities were aware of the situation but had yet to determine the exact number of casualties.
“We are aware of the incident that occurred at Dilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border, and we are currently gathering information on what transpired,” he said. “At this moment, we do not have confirmed casualty figures, as details are still being verified. Security agencies are on the ground assessing the situation. The public will be informed once accurate and official updates are available.”
Local sources suggested that the airstrike took place during a military operation targeting suspected members of Boko Haram believed to be operating in the area. According to residents, insurgents frequently visit the market to extort levies from traders and obtain supplies.
A source in Damaturu indicated that the fighter jet may have been tracking insurgents but missed its intended target. The source claimed that at least 10 people were killed and several others injured, although this figure remains unverified by authorities.
Emergency responders were still attending to victims as of press time, with the injured reportedly receiving treatment in medical facilities in Geidam and Damaturu.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Air Force has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
