Presidency Condemns Atiku's Criticism of Airstrike

The Nigerian Presidency has responded to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's criticism of a recent military airstrike at Jilli Market in Borno State, describing his comments as "reckless." The airstrike reportedly resulted in several casualties among traders, raising concerns about collateral damage. Atiku lamented the loss of innocent Nigerian lives and questioned the safety of civilians amid military operations aimed at combating terrorism.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Presidency, through Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, defended the airstrike, asserting that it was based on intelligence targeting insurgent enclaves within Jilli. The statement accused Atiku of politicizing military operations and undermining public confidence in the security forces.

The Presidency emphasized that the military's actions were intended to protect Nigerians from terrorist threats, countering Atiku's claims that the operation attacked civilians.