The Presidency has faulted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over his remarks on the recent airstrikes at Jilli Market in Borno State, accusing him of politicising a national security issue.
Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Communications, made the statement via his official X account, questioning Atiku’s stance on the military operation.
Dare argued that the former vice president’s comments misrepresented the nature of the strike and undermined the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces
According to him, the Nigerian Air Force carried out intelligence-based operations targeting insurgent strongholds in the Jilli axis.
He explained that although the area is still referred to as a market, it has reportedly ceased to function as a civilian trading centre for several years.
Instead, Dare claimed the location had evolved into a logistics hub used by insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP.
He said portraying the operation as an attack on civilians without acknowledging this context was misleading and potentially harmful.
Dare further stated that such criticism could weaken public trust and affect the morale of security personnel engaged in counter-terrorism operations.
He accused Atiku of inconsistency, noting that while the government is often criticised for insecurity, decisive military actions are also condemned when taken.
The presidential aide described such reactions as political opportunism rather than constructive opposition.
Meanwhile, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also clarified that the Jilli Market had been shut down by the state government about five years ago due to security concerns.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Dauda Iliya, Zulum described the location as a known operational base for insurgents and their supply networks.
He added that the state government works closely with security agencies before reopening markets or resettling communities in conflict-affected areas.
Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting residents and restoring stability in the region.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information.
Also reacting, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, defended the military’s strategy, stating that individuals aiding insurgents would be treated as part of the threat.
He emphasised that the military would continue to target networks supporting terrorist activities in its ongoing operations.
The incident has sparked national debate, highlighting the sensitive balance between security operations and public perception in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency.
