As reported by Nigerian Tribune on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, Christopher Musa, the Minister of Defence of Nigeria, asserted that those who lost their lives in the airstrike at Jilli market in Borno State were not innocent bystanders but individuals believed to be linked to networks supporting insurgency.
This statement was made following a high-profile security gathering led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where significant security issues throughout the nation were addressed by leading officials from the government and military.
Musa indicated that the military action which resulted in the airstrike was based on reliable intelligence gathered over an extended period.
He elaborated that the target area within Jilli market was recognized as a logistics hub utilized by individuals involved in insurgent undertakings.
According to him, such sites frequently function as locations where supplies, intelligence, and coordination for armed factions are organized, rendering them important targets for military engagement.
The Defence Minister highlighted that the measures taken by the armed forces were part of a broader strategy to diminish insurgent networks in the region.
The airstrike has attracted scrutiny due to reports indicating potential civilian casualties during the event.
Nonetheless, Musa rejected assertions that the military had misjudged or mishandled the situation.
He asserted that the operation was meticulously planned and executed following comprehensive intelligence validation.
He remarked that the armed forces adhered to standard protocols when identifying and confirming the target prior to initiating the strike, as per their responsibility to combat security threats.
Musa reiterated that security actions in regions like Borno State impacted by conflict necessitate a high degree of coordination and information gathering.
He pointed out that insurgent organizations often function within civilian settings, complicating the distinction between fighters and non-fighters.
Despite these obstacles, he emphasized that the military is dedicated to performing operations effectively while upholding national security as a priority.
He also underscored the crucial need for ongoing cooperation among security forces to address insurgency and related dangers.
He stated, “We acted on intelligence, pinpointed the location, and struck the target. This was a purposeful operation.”……See More
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