Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the reported airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on a market along the Borno–Yobe border, describing the incident as a “devastating failure” that demands urgent accountability.

No fewer than 56 people, mostly traders, are feared dead, while 14 others have reportedly been hospitalised following the strike at Jilli market.

Reacting in a statement posted on X on Sunday, Atiku expressed outrage over the loss of civilian lives, warning that such incidents continue to undermine public confidence in security operations.

“The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience,” he said.

He criticised the recurring pattern of civilians being affected during counter-insurgency operations, noting that those meant to be protected are often caught in the crossfire.

“While targeting insurgents, innocent Nigerians were once again reduced to collateral damage. How long will citizens remain unsafe both from terrorists and from the very operations meant to protect them?” he asked.

Atiku drew a comparison with international military standards, citing a recent United States operation to emphasise the value placed on human life.

“Just a few days ago, the United States deployed over 150 aircraft and spent an estimated $300 million to rescue just one pilot in Iran, even destroying equipment worth over $100 million each to protect a single life,” he said.

“That is the value they place on one citizen. Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives?”

He called for a comprehensive review of military operations and stronger safeguards to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

“This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence,” he added.

The former vice-president also extended condolences to families of the victims and affected communities.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizen. That is the ultimate essence of National Security,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that it carried out air operations in the area but did not state whether civilians were affected.

In a statement signed by its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said it conducted “precision follow-up mop-up airstrikes on identified terrorist locations within the Jilli axis of Borno State on April 11, 2026.”

According to the statement, the strikes were part of a coordinated air and ground offensive with the Nigerian Army under Operation HADIN KAI.