Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has said the state government closed down Jilli market five years ago, for serving as a notorious hub allegedly used by insurgents and their logistics suppliers.

He said this while reacting to the bombing which claimed over 50 lives at the market, on Saturday.

In a statement issued Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor warned residents against aiding, harbouring, or providing logistical support to Boko Haram 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. Let me state categorically that the Borno State Government closed Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago.”

“I am in close consultation with the Government of Yobe State and the military hierarchy on the matter,” he said.

Governor Zulum explained that Borno maintains close coordination with the military and other security agencies before resettling any community or reopening markets, particularly in areas affected by insurgency.

He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding law-abiding citizens and sustaining collaborative efforts with security agencies to restore lasting peace and stability across the state.

Zulum further urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that will aid ongoing military operations. (Daily Trust)