Panic and confusion gripped residents of Maiduguri Metropolitan Council on Monday evening as multiple suicide bomb explosions struck crowded locations in a coordinated attack during the Iftar period.
The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed that the deadly incidents occurred at about 7:05 p.m., when suspected Boko Haram suicide bombers detonated improvised explosive devices at three strategic points within the city.
The affected areas include the Post Office axis, the busy Monday Market, and the entrance to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital—all targeted at peak hours when residents were breaking their Ramadan fast.
Military authorities described the attacks as “cowardly,” noting that the coordinated strikes were aimed at inflicting mass casualties and instilling fear among the populace.
In a swift response, troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working alongside the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit and other security agencies, immediately moved in to secure the blast scenes and prevent further casualties. The affected areas were cordoned off as clearance operations commenced.
Emergency responders, including officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and medical teams, quickly evacuated victims to nearby health facilities such as the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital, and UMTH for urgent treatment.
Medical personnel are currently battling to stabilize injured victims across various hospitals in the metropolis, while search-and-rescue operations continue at the blast sites.
Preliminary intelligence indicates that the attackers may have infiltrated the city with multiple suicide bombers in a coordinated plot to strike crowded areas simultaneously, raising fresh security concerns in the state capital.
Following the incidents, security forces have intensified surveillance, patrols, and counter-IED operations across Maiduguri to track down any remaining suspects and forestall further attacks.
Residents have been urged to remain calm but highly vigilant, avoid large gatherings where possible, and promptly report suspicious activities or objects to security agencies.
Operation HADIN KAI extended condolences to families of victims, assuring that efforts are underway to bring those responsible to justice.
“The Armed Forces and all security agencies remain resolute in safeguarding lives and property while relentlessly pursuing terrorist elements behind these heinous acts,” the statement emphasized.
The latest attack underscores the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups in the North-East, even as security forces continue sustained operations to restore lasting peace in the region.
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