The Nigeria Police Force in Borno State has confirmed that no fewer than 23 persons were killed while 108 others sustained injuries following multiple explosions that rocked Maiduguri on Monday evening in what authorities described as coordinated suicide attacks.
The incidents, which occurred at about 7:24 p.m., targeted crowded and strategic locations across the metropolis, including the Maiduguri Monday Market, the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office Flyover.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, preliminary investigations revealed that the attacks were carried out by suspected suicide bombers using improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The near-simultaneous nature of the explosions across different parts of the city has heightened concerns over evolving tactics by insurgent groups aimed at undermining ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the North-East.
Security sources noted that the selection of targets — a busy market, a hospital vicinity, and a major flyover — points to a deliberate attempt to maximise casualties, spread fear, and disrupt socio-economic activities within the state capital.
In response to the attacks, a combined team of Police Tactical Units, military personnel, and other joint security operatives were immediately deployed to the affected locations. The areas were swiftly secured and cordoned off, while the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit conducted thorough sweep operations to ensure no additional devices were planted.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, led a high-level assessment visit to the scenes, where he commiserated with victims and their families. He assured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, adding that enhanced security measures have been activated across the state.
Emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (BOSEMA), worked alongside medical teams to evacuate victims to various hospitals, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Despite the scale of the attacks, authorities say efforts are ongoing to restore normalcy, with security presence significantly reinforced across Maiduguri and surrounding areas.
Residents have been urged to remain calm but vigilant, especially in public spaces, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies.
The police command also commended the resilience and cooperation of residents, reiterating its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the state.
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