Jilli Airstrike: Defense Minister Musa warns supporters of terrorists, saying they will be treated as criminals

Defense Minister Christopher Musa has warned that terrorist supporters in the country will be treated as criminals.

He said this on Monday when he reacted to the air strikes carried out by the Nigerian Air Force in Jilli, Borno State, over the weekend.

Speaking after an expanded security meeting in Kaduna with state governors and heads of security agencies, Musa said the operation sent a clear message to those collaborating with terrorist groups.

He stressed that anyone found to be supporting the rebels would face the same consequences as the perpetrators.

“Friends of thieves are still thieves,” he said, warning civilians against contacting or providing any assistance to terrorists.

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Musa urged residents to avoid areas known to be used by rebels, noting that proximity or collaboration could have serious consequences.

The airstrike, carried out near Jilli village in Gubio Local Government Area, targeted what the military described as an ISWAP enclave and logistics hub.

According to the Nigerian Air Force, the operation was intelligence-driven and aimed at neutralizing terror elements and destroying their equipment.

However, reports emerged suggesting that the attacks may have affected weekly markets in the region, and civilians, including cross-border traders, were reportedly among them.

But Musa stated that the attack should serve as a stern warning to those aiding rebel activities, and reiterated the military’s resolve to intensify operations against terrorist networks.