Outcry Over Airstrike as Borno Governor Insists Jilli Market Was Terrorists’ Hub

Amid widespread public outrage following the killing of about 50 civilians during a Saturday airstrike on Jilli market by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, Babagana Zulum has stated that the market had been shut down five years ago.

Speaking on Sunday, the governor explained that the market, located in Jilli—a border community in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State—was previously identified as a trading hub used by terrorists and had since been closed.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda, the government described Jilli market as a notorious location allegedly utilized by insurgents and their logistics suppliers.
Zulum expressed surprise that the market was still in operation despite its closure, noting that it was shut down alongside Gazabure market about five years earlier.
“I have been properly briefed on the airstrike carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai on Jilli market, a border town between Borno and Yobe State. I am in close consultation with the Government of Yobe State and the military hierarchy on the matter,” he said.
The governor further emphasized that the Borno State Government works closely with the military and other security agencies before resettling communities or reopening markets, particularly in areas affected by insurgency.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and urged residents to collaborate with security agencies to restore lasting peace in the state.
Zulum also called on citizens to remain vigilant and support security operatives by providing useful intelligence.