The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has begun an investigation into allegations of civilian casualties during airstrikes around Jilli Market near Fuchimiram village in the Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State
In a statement on Sunday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said it “treats all reports of possible civilian harm with the utmost seriousness and empathy”
“In line with this commitment, the CAS has directed an immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to immediately proceed to the location on a fact-finding mission on the allegation,” the statement read.
NAF maintained that it remained “firmly committed to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in the conduct of its missions”.
Ejodame said the service remained committed to professionalism, accountability and transparency in its missions.
He added that the force would work with authorities and community representatives to establish the facts.
While the investigation continues, he urged the public and media to avoid speculation and allow due process.
He said, ‘The Nigerian Air Force reassures citizens of its resolve to protect national security and civilian lives. Every credible concern will be addressed with diligence and seriousness’.
In an earlier statement, the Nigerian Air Force confirmed mop-up air strikes in the Jilli axis. But it did not state whether any civilian casualties were recorded.
“Coming amid intensified efforts to track and neutralise terrorist elements responsible for recent attacks on security forces within the wider theatre, the follow-on strikes were aimed at fleeing remnants and regrouping cells seeking to exploit the difficult terrain,” NAF said.
Several persons were feared killed and others wounded after the suspected accidental airstrikes at Jilli Market in the Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State
