Former Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai, has described the Jilli Market airstrike, which happened along the Borno-Yobe border, as deeply unfortunate and painful.
Over 50 people reportedly lost their lives in the strikes, with many others injured.
Buratai, in a statement on Sunday, said the strike was a targeted military action based on credible intelligence that Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were using the weekly market at Jilli to collect illegal levies, procure supplies, and plan further attacks.
While expressing sadness over the loss of innocent lives, Brutai said the Nigerian Air Force must be commended for the intelligence, courage and professionalism displayed in the operation in the area.
Brutai further described the Jilli Market as a den of terrorists.
The statement read, “The public should understand the history of Jilli Market. It has long been a notorious terrorist logistics hub.
“The Nigerian Army repeatedly raided and shut it down. In 2018, during Operation LAST HOLD, our troops occupied the area and engaged in multiple clashes with insurgents.
“Despite several closures, the terrorists continued to operate the market with the cooperation of some individuals who patronised and supplied them.
“It is deeply regrettable that innocent lives may have been caught in the strike, but the sole responsibility rests with the terrorists who deliberately embed themselves within civilian spaces as human shields.
“No military wishes to harm civilians, but when terrorist logistics and warnings dominate a market have been ignored for years, the military has a duty to act.
“I appeal to the people of Geidam, Gubio, Damasak, and Ngamdu to cooperate with the military. Stop patronising or supplying goods to any market where terrorists establish or frequent. Communities that continue to trade with insurgents will inevitably find themselves in harm’s way.
“The armed forces deserve our support. They acted on solid intelligence and struck a legitimate target. While we mourn innocent lives lost, we must not weaken our resolve against an enemy that shows no mercy.
“Victory is certain with continued military action and civilian cooperation. May the souls of the departed innocent rest in peace, and may the injured recover swiftly.
“The military deserves our unwavering support. They acted based on credible intelligence and targeted a legitimate objective. Although we grieve for the innocent lives that have been lost, we must not allow our determination to falter against an adversary that exhibits no compassion.
“Success is assured with ongoing military efforts and the collaboration of civilians. May the souls of the innocent who have departed find eternal peace, and may those who are injured experience a swift recovery.”