Many feared dead, others injured as multiple bomb blasts hit Maiduguri

Many people are feared dead and several others injured after explosions rocked Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, on Monday evening.

According to witnesses, one of the explosions occurred at the Maiduguri Main Market shortly after iftar, around 7 p.m.

Another another blast happened at the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

A video seen by our correspondent shows several injured victims being rushed to hospital for treatment.

Some victims were transported in a tricycle and later seen sitting on the floor at the hospital with visible blood stains.

In a statement shared on X on Monday night, Nahum Daso, spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force in Borno State, confirmed the incident.

“Following reports of suspected explosions at Maiduguri Monday Market and the UMTH gate at about 7:20pm, joint security operatives and emergency responders have been deployed,” Daso wrote.

“Police EOD Unit, Base 13 Maiduguri, is on ground. Residents are advised to remain calm and avoid the area while assessments continue.”

Providing further updates in another post, he said the police command’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit had begun clearance operations at the Maiduguri Monday Market, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the post office flyover, where the blasts occurred.

“Normalcy has been restored. Residents of Maiduguri are advised to remain calm and maintain vigilance,” he posted around 9:44 p.m. on Monday.

Also confirming the incident, Mohammed Kafaran, head of operations of the Federal Fire Service in Borno State, said the agency had deployed personnel to the scene.

“Yes, there was a bomb explosion at the Monday Market area around Elkanemi. We have deployed our team there to assess the situation. We will get back to you shortly,” Kafaran told PUNCH.

Zulum condemns blasts

Meanwhile, Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno State, has condemned the explosions that occurred in parts of Maiduguri on Monday evening.

Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, described the attack as despicable, cruel, and cowardly, noting that innocent people were targeted during the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, the governor called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship and other public places as the festive period approaches.

“I am deeply saddened by the explosions that occurred in parts of the metropolis on Monday evening. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast. The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane,” Zulum said.

He added that the recent surge in attacks may be linked to intensified military operations in the Sambisa Forest and other insurgent hideouts.

The governor assured residents that the military and other security agencies were on top of the situation and that adequate measures had been taken to prevent further security breaches in Maiduguri and across the state.

He also urged residents to remain calm, continue their normal activities, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.