MURIC Condemns Yobe Market Airstrike, Demands Suspension of Officers

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has condemned the reported airstrike on a market at the Borno–Yobe border, which allegedly left dozens dead, describing the incident as unacceptable and calling for immediate accountability.

In a statement issued on Sunday, April 12, 2026, the group said more than 56 people were reported killed in what authorities described as an “accidental” bombing, although other reports suggested the death toll could be significantly higher.

Reacting to the development, MURIC called for the suspension of all personnel involved in the operation pending the outcome of an independent investigation.

“This is one accidental bombing too many. This is perhaps the third or fourth of such erratic bombing. It is the height of ineptitude. How many times will our Air Force kill innocent civilians?” the statement read.

The organisation questioned the circumstances surrounding the strike, raising concerns over intelligence gathering and operational decisions.

“What happened to forward-gathering intelligence? Was there any intelligence report at all? Who commanded the raid? Who gave the order to drop bombs? Who flew the jet fighters? We need answers. This is atrocious,” MURIC stated.

The group also expressed concern over conflicting casualty figures, noting that while some local reports put the death toll at over 50, international sources suggested it could be as high as 200.

Calling for broader oversight, MURIC urged the National Assembly to take charge of the investigation, insisting that the Nigerian Air Force should not be left to probe the incident alone.

“MURIC demands immediate suspension of all those involved: from the pilot and copilot to the senior officers who approved the dropping of bombs. This must not go without a probe… We demand accountability,” the statement added.

The statement was signed by the Founder and Executive Director of MURIC, Professor Ishaq Akintola.