Story perspectives

Nigerian Airstrike on Market Kills Over 100 Civilians

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Nigerian military described an airstrike on a market in Jilli as a "precision" operation targeting Islamic State West Africa Province (Iswap).
The strike killed at least 100 people, with some local sources claiming the toll exceeds 200.
Eyewitnesses and local officials say civilians were hit, not insurgents, challenging the military's characterization.
Amnesty International condemned the strike and called for accountability.
Investigations are ongoing amid broader military criticism.

History

Historical Context

Since 2015, Nigeria's military has intensified its campaign against Boko Haram, resulting in over 20,000 deaths and 2.3 million displaced civilians. Recent airstrikes, such as the December 2023 attack in Tudun Biri that killed at least 85 civilians, reflect a troubling pattern of misidentifying targets, raising urgent concerns about accountability and the need for reform in military engagement strategies to protect civilians.

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Story summary

The Nigerian military described an airstrike on a market in Jilli as a "precision" operation targeting Islamic State West Africa Province (Iswap).
The strike killed at least 100 people, with some local sources claiming the toll exceeds 200.
Eyewitnesses and local officials say civilians were hit, not insurgents, challenging the military's characterization.
Amnesty International condemned the strike and called for accountability.
Investigations are ongoing amid broader military criticism.

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