The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, has said the Jilli market, recently hit by a deadly bombing, had been shut down by the state government five years ago over alleged use by insurgents and their logistics suppliers.
The governor made this known while reacting to the attack on Saturday, which reportedly claimed over 50 lives.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, Zulum said the decision to close the market was based on credible intelligence linking it to the activities of insurgents.
“I have been properly briefed on the airstrike carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai on Jilli market, a border town between Borno and Yobe states,” he said.
“Let me state categorically that the Borno State Government closed Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago.”
The governor further disclosed that he is engaging relevant authorities following the incident.
“I am in close consultation with the Government of Yobe State and the military hierarchy on the matter,” he added.
Zulum stressed that the state government maintains strong collaboration with the military and other security agencies before making decisions on reopening markets or resettling communities, especially in conflict-affected areas.
He warned residents against aiding or harbouring insurgents, stressing that such actions undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace.
Zulum urged citizens to desist from providing logistical support to Boko Haram elements and instead cooperate fully with security agencies.
Reaffirming his administration’s stance, the governor said the protection of law-abiding citizens remains a top priority.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment to sustained collaboration with security agencies to achieve lasting peace and stability across the state.
Zulum called on residents to remain vigilant and support ongoing military operations by providing credible and timely information.
According to him, collective responsibility and community cooperation are crucial in tackling insurgency and preventing further tragedies in the region.
