Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan has called for a transparent and independent investigation into the recent airstrike that killed dozens of civilians at Jilli Market along the Borno-Yobe border. The incident, which occurred during a military operation targeting suspected Boko Haram insurgents, has sparked widespread outrage and concerns over recurring accidental strikes.
Lawan expressed sorrow over the incident, acknowledging the sacrifices of the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against insurgency. He emphasized that the scale of the tragedy necessitates an independent inquiry, stating, “The victims deserve answers and justice”.
Eyewitness accounts indicate multiple aircraft were involved, and the strike hit a market, leaving several dead and many injured, with fears the toll could rise. The Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation, acknowledging reports of civilian casualties and promising transparency.
The incident has drawn condemnation from human rights groups, including Amnesty International, which called for accountability and urged authorities to prevent similar incidents. Would you like to know more about the investigation’s progress or the government’s response to the incident?