The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has confirmed an accidental airstrike involving civilians at Jilli Saturday Market in Gubio Local Government Area, a border community near Geidam LGA, with reported casualties.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the agency said the incident occurred on Saturday, April 11, 2026, and affected traders, many of whom were from Geidam Local Government Area.
“The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency wishes to inform the general public that it has received preliminary reports of an incident on Saturday evening, April 11, 2026, at Jilli Saturday Market in Gubio Local Government Area bordering Geidam, which reportedly resulted in casualties affecting some traders from Geidam LGA, Yobe State,” the statement read.
SEMA said it had activated emergency response mechanisms following directives from Governor Mai Mala Buni, deploying assessment teams to the affected area.
“In response, SEMA, as directed by the governor, in collaboration with relevant security agencies and health authorities, has immediately activated emergency response mechanisms and deployed teams to ascertain the facts and provide necessary support to victims,” the agency added.
The agency noted that it is working closely with security and health authorities to manage the situation and deliver urgent assistance.
Earlier reports indicated that several people were feared dead in the strike. While some local sources put the death toll at over 30, international media reports suggested significantly higher figures. However, SEMA cautioned against circulating unverified casualty numbers.
“The agency urges members of the public to remain calm and refrain from sharing unconfirmed information, particularly speculative figures,” it said.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed carrying out precision airstrikes in the Jilli axis under Operation Hadin Kai but has yet to comment on reports of civilian casualties.
SEMA assured residents that efforts are ongoing to fully establish the facts and provide humanitarian support to those affected.
“The situation is being closely monitored, and every effort is being made to ensure prompt humanitarian assistance,” the statement said.
The agency also expressed sympathy with victims and their families, adding that further updates would be provided as more verified information becomes available.
