At least 56 people, mostly traders, are feared dead after a military airstrike struck a busy weekly market at Jilli, along the border between Borno and Yobe states.

The incident occurred on Saturday at Jilli Market, situated between Gubio in Borno State and Geidam in Yobe State, where residents had gathered for trading activities.

Reports indicate that four fighter jets were involved in the operation, which was reportedly targeting suspected Boko Haram fighters believed to be in the area to collect supplies and funds. However, the strike allegedly missed its intended targets and hit civilians.

Several people were injured in the attack, with between 14 and 20 victims taken to a specialist hospital in Geidam for treatment. Local officials said some of the injured later died, increasing the casualty figure.

The Security Adviser to the Yobe State Governor, Abdulsalam Dahiru,  confirmed the attack, noting that the market is located within Borno State territory.