Boko Haram Ambush Kills Soldiers, Airstrike Casualties Rise

On April 12, 2023, a Boko Haram ambush led to the deaths of Brig. Gen. Oseini Braimah and 17 soldiers during a military operation in Borno State. The ambush occurred at a forward operating base linked to the 242 Battalion.

In response, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted aerial operations targeting the insurgents, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 200 civilians, including women and children, during a strike on Jilli Market. The Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, represented by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, confirmed the attack and the subsequent airstrikes.

Amidst rising civilian casualties, there have been calls for an independent investigation into the airstrikes, with local residents expressing fears that the death toll may increase. The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, noted that the market had been shut for five years due to its association with insurgent activities.