Accidental Airstrike: Nigerians Unsafe From Terrorists, Those Meant To Protect Them — Atiku

Former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the recent airstrike on Jilli market in Yobe State, which claimed the lives of several traders, describing the incident as a tragic failure that highlights growing concerns over civilian safety during military operations.

OSUN DEFENDER reports that Fighter jets of the Nigerian Air Force, while targeting suspected terrorists, mistakenly bombed traders at the market located along the Yobe–Borno border.

Reacting, Atiku said the development should provoke outrage, noting that innocent Nigerians were once again caught in the crossfire of counter-insurgency efforts.

He questioned the repeated occurrence of such incidents, asking how long citizens would continue to face danger not only from insurgents but also from operations intended to protect them.

He said, “The Jilli market airstrike that killed scores of innocent traders is not just tragic, but a devastating failure that must outrage every conscience. 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? 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. That is the value they place on one citizen.

“Here at home, we must ask: what is the value of Nigerian lives? This demands urgent review, accountability, and decisive action to prevent a recurrence. My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved families and affected communities. Nigeria must uphold its duty to protect its citizens. That is the ultimate essence of national security.”

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.

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