Air Force Probes Alleged Civilian Deaths in Jilli Airstrike, Deploys Investigation Team

Military activates CHAI-Cell as questions mount over civilian protection and operational oversight

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By Yahaya Jinjiri | Maiduguri, Nigeria

The Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation into reports of civilian casualties following a recent airstrike in Jilli, amid growing concerns over the impact of counter-insurgency operations on local populations.

The development comes after claims that the strike may have affected a local market, raising fresh scrutiny over targeting accuracy and safeguards.

In an official statement, the Air Force confirmed it had received reports suggesting that a strike conducted on Saturday may have resulted in harm to civilians.

The service said it treats all such allegations with “utmost seriousness and empathy,” emphasising that the protection of innocent lives remains a core operational priority.

CHAI-Cell Deployed for Fact-Finding
The Chief of the Air Staff has ordered the immediate deployment of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell (CHAI-Cell) to the affected area.

According to the Air Force, the unit will carry out a detailed fact-finding mission to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Investigations are expected to involve collaboration with local authorities, community leaders, and other relevant stakeholders.

Civilian Casualties and Operational Accountability
The reported incident has reignited concerns about civilian harm in military operations, particularly in conflict-prone regions where airstrikes are frequently deployed against insurgent targets.

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Security analysts note that while air power remains a critical tool in counter-terrorism efforts, incidents involving civilian casualties can undermine public trust and complicate intelligence-gathering efforts.

The absence of immediate clarity on casualty figures or verified damage has also raised questions about real-time assessment mechanisms within military operations.

Transparency and Public Confidence
The Air Force has pledged transparency and accountability in handling the investigation, urging the public and media to avoid speculation while the process unfolds.

However, past incidents involving disputed casualty figures have heightened public sensitivity, with stakeholders calling for independent verification and timely disclosure of findings.

Balancing Security and Civilian Protection
The military reiterated its commitment to balancing national security objectives with the protection of civilian lives, a challenge that remains central to Nigeria’s ongoing security operations.

Experts argue that strengthening intelligence accuracy, surveillance systems, and community engagement is critical to reducing unintended harm.

As the investigation progresses, the outcome will be closely watched as a test of the military’s commitment to accountability and civilian protection.

For affected communities, the findings may determine not only responsibility but also the level of trust in ongoing security operations.