At least 23 people have been confirmed dead and 108 others injured after multiple bomb explosions struck parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Monday evening.
The attacks, which occurred almost simultaneously, targeted three busy locations — the Monday Market, the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office Flyover area — throwing the city into panic.
According to The PUNCH, the Police Public Relations Officer in Borno State, ASP Nahum Daso, confirmed the casualty figures in a statement on Tuesday, noting that preliminary findings suggest the explosions were carried out by suspected suicide bombers.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the incidents were the handiwork of suspected suicide bombers. Sadly, 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” Daso said.
He explained that security operatives, including police tactical teams and the military, were immediately deployed to the affected areas to secure the scenes and prevent further attacks.
“The locations were swiftly cordoned off, and our Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit conducted thorough sweep operations to ensure there were no additional threats,” he added.
According to the police, emergency responders, including officials of the National Emergency Management Agency and the State Emergency Management Agency, evacuated victims to nearby hospitals, where the injured are currently receiving treatment.
Daso also disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Naziru Abdulmaji, visited the blast sites to assess the situation and commiserate with victims and their families.
“The Commissioner assured residents of our unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, while efforts are ongoing to bring those responsible to justice,” he said.
He further stated that calm has been restored in the affected areas, with increased security presence and surveillance across Maiduguri to forestall any recurrence.
Meanwhile, Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, condemned the attacks, describing them as inhumane and targeting innocent civilians during a sacred period.
“This act is despicable, cruel, and cowardly. My thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” the governor said in a statement.
Zulum linked the resurgence of attacks to intensified military operations against insurgents in their strongholds, particularly in the Sambisa forest.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies as investigations into the incident continue.
