Maiduguri, NIGERIA – A military operation aimed at neutralising insurgents ended in tragedy on Saturday, April 11, 2026, when an airstrike mistakenly hit a crowded market along the Borno–Yobe border.
Okay News gathered that the incident occurred at Jilli Market, a busy weekly hub located between Gubio in Borno and Geidam in Yobe. According to eyewitnesses, four fighter jets were involved in the operation, which was reportedly tracking Boko Haram fighters suspected of visiting the market to collect supplies and “taxes” from traders.
At least 56 people, mostly traders and shoppers, are feared dead as a result of the strikes. Local sources reported that while many tried to flee when the jets began firing, the strikes continued, leading to a high casualty count. Between 14 and 20 survivors with varying degrees of injuries were rushed to the Specialist Hospital in Geidam for emergency treatment, with some reportedly dying shortly after arrival.
Malam Lawan Zanna, a local councillor, confirmed the chaotic scene, stating that the death toll had risen as more victims succumbed to their wounds. While the Security Adviser to the Yobe State Governor, Brigadier General Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd), confirmed the incident, he clarified that the market falls geographically within Borno State.
The Nigerian Air Force has yet to release an official statement regarding the accidental strike as of Sunday afternoon. This incident adds to the mounting tension in the region following a week of intense military activity and insurgent counter-attacks in Borno State.
