Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum, has warned residents of the state against aiding or supporting Boko Haram insurgents in any form, following a recent military airstrike on Jilli market, a border community between Borno and Yobe states.
In a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor said the market had long been identified as a location used by insurgents and their logistics suppliers. He stressed that anyone found helping such groups would be putting the lives of innocent people at risk.
Zulum said he had been fully briefed on the airstrike carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, the military task force leading counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East. According to him, the Borno State Government had already taken steps years ago to prevent activities in the area.
“I have been properly briefed on the airstrike carried out on Jilli market,” the governor said. “Let me state clearly that the Borno State Government closed Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago.”
The governor explained that the closure of the markets was part of efforts to cut off supply routes used by Boko Haram fighters. Over the years, security agencies have repeatedly identified local markets in remote areas as places where insurgents obtain food, fuel, and other basic supplies.
Zulum noted that despite the closure order, there have been reports that illegal trading activities continued in the area, allegedly involving individuals who supply goods to insurgents. He warned that such actions undermine ongoing military operations and prolong the conflict in the region.
He also revealed that he is in close contact with the Yobe State Government and military authorities to fully understand the situation and ensure proper coordination going forward.
“I am in close consultation with the Government of Yobe State and the military hierarchy on the matter,” he added.
The North-East region, especially Borno State, has been at the centre of the Boko Haram insurgency for more than a decade. Thousands of people have been killed, while millions have been displaced from their homes. In response, the federal government, working with the military and state authorities, has continued efforts to weaken the insurgents and restore normal life.
Part of these efforts includes closing down markets and restricting movement in areas suspected to be used by insurgents. While these measures have helped reduce attacks in some places, they have also affected the livelihoods of local residents who depend on trade for survival.
Zulum acknowledged the difficulties faced by citizens but maintained that security must come first. He said the government always works closely with the military and other security agencies before reopening any market or resettling displaced communities.
According to him, such decisions are based on careful assessment of the security situation to ensure that people can return safely without exposing them to further danger.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and restoring peace across Borno State. He said the government would continue to support the military and other security agencies in their operations.
He also called on residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. He stressed that timely and credible information from the public is key to defeating insurgency.
“Residents must remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Yobe State Government also reacted to the incident, confirming that the military operation was aimed at a Boko Haram stronghold. However, it noted that some civilians were accidentally affected during the strike.
This development has raised concerns about the safety of civilians in conflict areas, especially in locations where insurgents are known to operate close to local communities.
In recent years, both federal and state governments have increased efforts to improve coordination between the military and local authorities to reduce such risks. Community engagement and intelligence gathering have also been strengthened to help identify genuine threats.
Despite these efforts, the situation remains complex. Many rural communities in Borno and neighbouring states still struggle with insecurity, limited access to basic services, and the lingering impact of years of conflict.
For many residents, the governor’s warning serves as a reminder of the dangers of cooperating with insurgents, even indirectly. Authorities say that cutting off all forms of support to Boko Haram is essential to ending the violence.
As investigations into the Jilli market incident continue, both Borno and Yobe state governments have pledged to work closely with the military to ensure better protection for civilians while maintaining pressure on insurgent groups.