The Nigerian Army has raised fresh concerns over the possible infiltration of multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, following a series of deadly explosions that left dozens of residents dead and injured.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Northeast Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sanni Uba, the Army confirmed that at least 23 people were killed while 108 others sustained injuries in coordinated suicide attacks targeting crowded areas within the city.
According to the statement, the attacks occurred during the Iftar period and were carried out by suspected Boko Haram insurgents seeking to cause mass casualties and instill fear among residents.
“The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI wishes to inform the general public of suicide bomb explosions that occurred this month in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council,” Uba said.
He added, “The cowardly attacks targeted crowded public areas in an attempt by the terrorists to inflict mass casualties and create panic within the metropolis.”
The affected locations include the Post Office area, the market axis, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), all of which are typically busy with civilian activities.
Security operatives, including troops of Operation Hadin Kai and the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, swiftly responded to the incidents by cordoning off the affected areas to prevent further damage.
“Emergency response teams, including personnel from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other medical service providers, promptly evacuated casualties to the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital, and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for urgent medical attention,” the statement said.
The Army further warned that intelligence reports suggest more suicide bombers may have been deployed into the city to carry out coordinated attacks.
“Preliminary information indicates that the terrorists may have deployed multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri. Security forces have intensified surveillance, patrols, and counter-IED measures to track down any remaining suspects and prevent further attacks,” Uba stated.
He assured residents that security agencies are on high alert and working tirelessly to ensure the safety of lives and property.
Uba urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, advising residents to avoid crowded places and report suspicious activities.
“Members of the public are advised to avoid crowded areas where possible and promptly report any suspicious persons, unattended items, or unusual activities to the nearest security agency,” he said.
The military also expressed condolences to families of the victims and reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism in the region.
“Operation HADIN KAI commiserates with the families of the victims and assures the public that troops remain fully committed to safeguarding lives and property while relentlessly pursuing those responsible for these heinous acts,” the statement added.
The latest incident underscores ongoing security challenges in Borno State, coming months after a similar suicide bombing at Al-Adum Mosque in Gamboru Market, Maiduguri, which claimed five lives and left 35 others injured.
