Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, and Amnesty International have strongly condemned the deadly airstrike on Jilli market in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State, describing the incident as tragic and demanding urgent accountability.
The airstrike, which reportedly killed scores of traders and injured many others, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed concerns about civilian safety during military operations in Nigeria’s North-East.
Atiku: “A Devastating Failure That Must Outrage Every Conscience”
Reacting to the incident, Atiku described the airstrike as a devastating failure that demands urgent review and accountability.
“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience,” Atiku said.
He lamented that innocent Nigerians continue to be caught in the crossfire of security operations meant to protect them.
“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?” he asked.
Drawing a comparison with international rescue efforts, Atiku noted:
“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.”
He further questioned the value placed on Nigerian lives.
“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.”
The former Vice President also extended condolences to victims and their families.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizens. That is the ultimate essence of national security.”
Amnesty International Condemns ‘Reckless Use of Deadly Force’
Amnesty International also condemned the incident, alleging that more than 100 people were killed in the airstrike at Jalli Futchimiram in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State.
“Amnesty International strongly condemns the military air strike that killed over 100 people at Jalli Futchimiram Geidam local government area of Yobe state,” the organization said.
According to the group, witnesses reported that multiple aircraft were involved in the attack.
“Witnesses said three military jets fired on the market yesterday. Emergency section of Geidam General Hospital had so far received 35 people with severe injuries.”
The human rights organization criticized the use of air raids in civilian areas, describing it as unlawful and dangerous.
“Launching air raids is not a legitimate law enforcement method by anyone’s standard. Such reckless use of deadly force is unlawful, outrageous and lays bare the Nigerian military’s shocking disregard for the lives of those it supposedly exists to protect.”