Maiduguri Suicide Bombing: 23 persons confirmed dead, 108 injured
At least 23 people have been confirmed dead, while 108 others sustained injuries after multiple suicide bomb attacks rocked Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday evening.
The explosions, which occurred at busy locations across the city, threw residents into panic and left several victims battling for their lives in hospitals.
Attacks hit crowded locations
The coordinated blasts were reportedly carried out by suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers. The attackers targeted crowded areas including the Monday Market, the main gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), and the Post Office Flyover.
However, some residents and local sources claimed the death toll could be higher than official figures. They suggested that more than 40 people, including the attackers, may have died as some injured victims later succumbed to their wounds.
Police confirm casualties
In a statement released early Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, confirmed the incident and described it 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 said.
Daso added that the explosions occurred around 7:24 p.m., prompting an immediate response from security agencies.
Security agencies respond swiftly
Following the attacks, a joint team of police tactical units, the military, and other security agencies were deployed to the affected areas. The locations were quickly secured and cordoned off.
The Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit also carried out detailed checks to ensure there were no additional threats.
The Commissioner of Police in Borno State, Naziru Abdulmajid, visited the scenes for an on-the-spot assessment. He sympathised with victims and their families, assuring residents of continued efforts to safeguard lives and property.
Victims receiving treatment
Emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), evacuated the injured to nearby hospitals. Many victims are currently receiving treatment for varying degrees of injuries.
Authorities confirmed that calm has returned to the affected areas, although security presence has been significantly increased across Maiduguri and surrounding communities.
Military reacts, urges vigilance
Reacting to the incident, the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, described the attacks as a deliberate attempt by terrorists to cause mass casualties and spread fear among residents.
In a statement signed by its Media Information Officer, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the task force said troops worked closely with police EOD teams and other agencies to secure the scenes and assist rescue efforts.
Residents were advised to remain calm but alert, avoid crowded places where possible, and report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies.
Authorities also assured that efforts are underway to track down those behind the attacks and prevent further incidents, reiterating their commitment to restoring lasting peace in the region.