The Borno State Police Command has confirmed that 23 people died and 108 others were injured following bomb explosions in three locations across Maiduguri on Monday evening.
The blasts, which occurred around 7:24 pm, struck the main Monday Market, the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office flyover.
In a statement, police spokesperson Nahum Daso said, “Preliminary investigation reveals that the incidents were carried out by suspected suicide bombers. Regrettably, a total of twenty three (23) persons lost their lives, while one hundred and eight (108) others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”
Daso added that a combined team of Police Tactical Units, the Military, and other Joint Security Operatives were swiftly deployed to the affected areas. “The scenes were immediately secured, cordoned off, and subjected to thorough sweep operations by Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit Base 13 Maiduguri to rule out the presence of any additional threats,” he said.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, psc, visited the sites to assess the situation and evaluate ongoing response efforts. He “commiserated with victims and their families, while assuring the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.”
Victims were promptly taken to medical facilities by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). Police confirmed that normalcy has been restored in the affected areas, while investigations continue.
“Meanwhile, joint security operatives have heightened security presence and surveillance across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent any further occurrences,” the statement added. Daso also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest security agency.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State condemned the attacks, describing them as “utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane.” He emphasized that targeting civilians and places of worship is unacceptable, especially during a period when Muslim faithful are observing acts of devotion.
