“Terrorists May Have Deployed Multiple Suicide Bombers into Maiduguri,” Says Army

The Nigerian Army has warned that additional Boko Haram suicide bombers may be present in Maiduguri after multiple explosions struck the Borno state capital on Monday evening.

According to the Borno State Police Command, 23 people were killed and 108 others injured. The blasts occurred around 7:24 PM, targeting a major market, the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office flyover.

Police spokesperson Nahum Daso said preliminary investigations indicate suspected suicide bombers carried out the attacks.

Sani Uba, spokesperson for the army’s Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed that improvised explosive devices were detonated at three separate locations. He added that the attacks were aimed at crowded public areas to cause mass casualties and fear.

“Preliminary information indicates that the terrorists may have deployed multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri with the intention of carrying out coordinated suicide bombings at crowded locations,” Uba said.

Security forces have stepped up patrols, surveillance, and counter-IED operations across the city. Troops, alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal team and other agencies, secured the affected areas to prevent further harm.

Emergency teams, including personnel from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and local hospitals, evacuated the injured to the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital, and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Uba urged residents to stay vigilant, avoid crowded areas where possible, and report any suspicious activity or unattended items to authorities.