Here’s What Happened” — Ex-Army Chief Buratai Speaks On Borno Airstrike Tragedy

The incident reportedly claimed the lives of more than 50 people, with several others injured.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Buratai said the strike was a deliberate military operation based on credible intelligence indicating that Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters were using the weekly market as a base to collect levies, source supplies, and coordinate attacks.

While expressing sympathy over the loss of innocent lives, he commended the Nigerian Air Force for what he described as its professionalism, bravery, and intelligence-driven execution of the operation.

Buratai further characterised Jilli Market as a long-standing hub for terrorist activities.

He explained that the location had a history of being used for insurgent logistics, noting that it had previously been raided and shut down multiple times by the military.

According to him, troops had taken control of the area during Operation LAST HOLD in 2018 and engaged insurgents in several confrontations, but the market continued to operate due to the involvement of some individuals who traded with the militants.

He acknowledged that civilian casualties were unfortunate but attributed responsibility to insurgents who, he said, deliberately operate within civilian environments.

Buratai stressed that while the military does not target civilians, it has a duty to act when locations are being used for terrorist operations, especially after repeated warnings.

He urged residents of surrounding communities, including Geidam, Gubio, Damasak, and Ngamdu, to cooperate with security forces and avoid engaging in any form of trade with areas known to be frequented by insurgents.

He added that continued collaboration between civilians and terrorists could put communities at risk.

Reaffirming support for the armed forces, Buratai said the operation was based on solid intelligence and targeted a legitimate objective, adding that efforts to combat insurgency must remain firm.

He also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished the injured a speedy recovery, while maintaining that sustained military action and public cooperation are key to defeating insurgency.