Outrage as reported market airstrike in Yobe leaves scores dead, Amnesty calls for accountability.

Amnesty International has strongly condemned a deadly airstrike in Yobe State, describing the incident as reckless and calling for an urgent and independent investigation into the reported mass civilian casualties.

The airstrike allegedly took place in Jalli Futchimiram, located in Geidam Local Government Area, where a local market was reportedly hit during a military operation targeting suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
Eyewitnesses said several military jets participated in the operation, which resulted in heavy loss of life. Reports indicate that more than 100 people may have been killed, while dozens sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Medical personnel at Geidam General Hospital confirmed that at least 35 severely injured victims were received following the incident, raising concerns that the death toll could increase.
In its reaction shared عبر official communication channels, Amnesty International criticised the deployment of air power in areas populated by civilians, stating that such actions fall below acceptable law enforcement standards.
The organisation described the strike as a violation of international humanitarian principles, warning that it signals a disturbing disregard for the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
Amnesty International called on Nigerian authorities to launch a transparent and impartial investigation, ensuring accountability for any wrongdoing and justice for victims.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Air Force had not issued an official statement regarding the incident. The lack of immediate clarification has heightened public concern, especially given the scale of casualties and the civilian nature of the location.
The incident adds to increasing scrutiny of military operations in Nigeria’s North-East, where efforts to combat insurgency have sometimes resulted in unintended civilian harm.
Despite ongoing offensives against insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, the region continues to face a fragile security situation.
Amnesty International stressed that accountability remains essential in preventing future occurrences, urging the government to strengthen operational safeguards and ensure strict compliance with rules of engagement.
As attention shifts to official responses, the incident highlights the delicate balance between fighting insurgency and safeguarding civilian lives in conflict-affected areas.