Maiduguri bombings leave 23 dead, 108 injured

The Borno State Police Command has confirmed that no fewer than 23 people were killed and 108 others injured following multiple suicide bomb attacks that rocked Maiduguri on Monday evening.

The coordinated explosions, reportedly carried out by suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers, targeted crowded locations including the Monday Market, the main gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), and the Post Office Flyover.

However, sources within the city suggested the death toll could be higher, claiming that more than 40 people, including the attackers, may have died, as some victims reportedly succumbed to their injuries while receiving treatment.

In a statement issued early Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, said the blasts occurred at about 7:24 p.m. and described the incidents as devastating.

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the attacks were carried out by suspected suicide bombers. Regrettably, a total of 23 persons lost their lives, while 108 others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” he stated.

Daso added that a joint team of police tactical units, the military, and other security agencies were immediately deployed to the affected areas to secure and cordon off the scenes. He noted that the Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit conducted thorough sweeps to eliminate further threats.

The Commissioner of Police in Borno State, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, visited the affected sites for an on-the-spot assessment, expressing condolences to victims and their families while assuring residents of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

Emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), evacuated victims to nearby medical facilities, where they are currently receiving treatment.

Police authorities said normalcy has been restored in the affected areas, with heightened security presence and surveillance across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent further attacks.

Meanwhile, the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, described the incident as an attempt by terrorists to cause mass casualties and instill fear among residents.

In a statement signed by its Media Information Officer, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the task force said troops, in collaboration with police EOD teams and other security agencies, responded swiftly to secure the locations and assist in rescue operations.

The military urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, avoid crowded areas where possible, and promptly report any suspicious persons or objects to security agencies.

Authorities also assured that efforts are ongoing to track down those responsible and prevent further attacks, reiterating their commitment to restoring lasting peace in the region.