Concerns are mounting over civilian casualties following an airstrike reportedly carried out by the Nigerian Air Force at a busy market along the Borno–Yobe border.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening at Dilli Market in Yobe State, a commercial hub located near the Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.
The market is known for drawing traders and buyers from surrounding communities, including Giedam, parts of the Chibok axis, and Benisheikh.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson of the Yobe State Police Command, Dungus Abdulkarim, said authorities were aware of the incident but had yet to ascertain the full extent 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. At this moment, we do not have confirmed casualty figures, as details are still being verified,” he stated.
He added that security operatives had been deployed to the area to assess the situation, while efforts were ongoing to document the incident and provide an official update.
Local sources, however, claimed the airstrike may have missed its intended target during a military operation aimed at suspected members of Boko Haram believed to be active in the area.
According to residents, insurgents are known to frequent the market to collect levies and procure supplies.
One source alleged that a fighter jet was tracking suspected insurgents at the time but struck the crowded market instead.
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Unverified reports suggested that at least 10 persons may have been killed, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Emergency responders were said to be attending to the wounded, with victims receiving treatment at medical facilities in Giedam and Damaturu.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Air Force had not released an official statement regarding the incident, leaving many questions unanswered as authorities continue investigations.
The development has raised fresh concerns over civilian safety in conflict-affected areas, particularly in locations where military operations intersect with daily economic activities.
