Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Christopher Musa, has warned that individuals who support or bargain trade with terrorist groups will be treated as rebels, following the controversial airstrike on Jilli market.
Strong Warning from Government
Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians, stating that anyone found aiding bandits or terrorist groups will face the same consequences as the criminals themselves.
Speaking during a security council meeting in Kaduna State, Musa stressed that collaboration with such groups would no longer be tolerated.
“A friend of a thief is a thief,” he said.
“Anybody providing support or trading with them will be treated like terrorists.”
Jilli Airstrike Sparks Controversy
The warning comes in response to the recent military airstrike on Jilli market, which has sparked widespread concern.
Local residents reports claim that the strike resulted in the deaths of over 100 civilians, with many others injured.
Military Defends Operation
According to the military, the airstrike was a precision operation aimed at a suspected terrorist hideout in the Jilli area of Gubio Local Government Area.
Officials stated that the location had been identified as:
A logistics hub
A movement corridor
A gathering point for fighters linked to ISWAP
The operation, they said, was part of ongoing efforts to combat insurgency in the region.
Amnesty International Reacts
However, Amnesty International has strongly criticised the operation, alleging that about 100 civilians were killed during the bombing.
The organisation called for an investigation into the incident and accountability where necessary.
Rising Security Concerns
The incident has further raised concerns over Nigeria’s ongoing battle with insurgency, especially in the North-East, where attacks by groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP continue.
Despite the criticism, government officials maintain that operations against terrorist groups will continue.
