Africa-Press – Nigeria. Former Vice President and chieftain of the African Democratic Party, ADC, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the Nigerian Air Force, NAF, airstrike on Jilli Market, which reportedly claimed the lives of innocent traders, describing the incident as a “devastating failure” that should outrage all Nigerians.
At least 56 people, mostly traders, were killed after a military airstrike hit a busy weekly market along the Borno, Yobe border.
The incident happened on Saturday at Jilli, located between Gubio in Borno State and Geidam in Yobe State. Four fighter jets were said to have been involved in the operation, which was reportedly aimed at suspected Boko Haram fighters
Reacting to the development in a statement posted via his X handle on Sunday, Atiku lamented that while security forces are targeting insurgents, civilians are once again caught in the crossfire and reduced to collateral damage.
“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience.
“While targeting insurgents, innocent Nigerians were once again reduced to collateral damage.
“How long will citizens remain unsafe both from terrorists and from the very operations meant to protect them? Just a few days ago, the United States deployed over 150 aircraft and spent an estimated $300 million to rescue just one pilot in Iran, even destroying equipment worth over $100 million each to protect a single life. That is the value they place on one citizen.
“Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives? This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizen. That is the ultimate essence of National Security,” Atiku said.
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