The Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation into allegations of civilian casualties following an airstrike conducted on 11 April 2026 in the Jilli axis along the Yobe–Borno border.

The Air Force said the operation, carried out under Operation Hadin Kai, was based on credible intelligence targeting Boko Haram insurgents operating in the area. However, reports from residents and local officials suggest that a market area may have been affected, raising concerns about possible civilian deaths and injuries.

A councillor representing the area, Lawan Zannah, claimed about 30 people were killed, while several others sustained injuries and were taken to Geidam General Hospital. Hospital officials also reported receiving dozens of injured persons, with medical teams describing the situation as overstretched.

The military maintained that the strike was part of ongoing efforts to track fleeing terrorist elements and disrupt insurgent operations in the region. It added that follow-up strikes were meant to deny terrorists freedom of movement and strengthen security across vulnerable communities in the North-East.

The Air Force spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the service takes all allegations of civilian harm seriously and has activated a Civilian Harm Investigation Cell to verify the claims on the ground.

Authorities urged the public to avoid speculation as investigations continue, while reaffirming commitment to counterterrorism operations and the protection of both civilians and national security objectives.