The Borno State Police Command has confirmed multiple explosions in Maiduguri, with security operatives swiftly deployed to contain the situation and assist victims.
Police spokesman, DSP Nahum Daso Kenneth, said the blasts occurred around 7:20 p.m. on Monday, triggering an immediate response from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams, joint security forces, and emergency responders.
The explosions were reported at key locations, including the Monday Market and the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH). Additional incidents were also recorded near the Post Office around the State Specialist Hospital.
“Following reports of suspected explosions at Maiduguri Monday Market and UMTH gate, joint security operatives and emergency responders have been deployed. The Police EOD Unit is already on ground,” Kenneth said.
Residents were urged to remain calm and steer clear of affected areas as security agencies conduct assessments. Emergency contact lines—0806 807 5581 and 0802 347 3293—were also released for public assistance.
The attacks occurred shortly after Muslims broke their Ramadan fast, heightening fears across the city. Although the number of casualties remains unclear, ambulances were seen evacuating injured persons from multiple blast sites.
Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, condemned the attacks, describing them as “despicable, cruel and cowardly,” particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Dauda Ilya, the governor assured residents that security agencies were working to stabilise the situation and prevent further attacks.
Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, expressed sympathy for victims and their families, urging residents to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places and places of worship.
He linked the renewed wave of violence to intensified military operations targeting insurgent hideouts in the Sambisa forest, noting that security forces remain in control and are taking steps to prevent further breaches.
Earlier in the day, panic had gripped parts of Maiduguri following a separate midnight attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents on communities around Dala, Bulamari and Ajilari Cross in Konduga Local Government Area.
The assault, which began around 12:35 a.m., saw heavily armed insurgents engage troops in a fierce gun battle, accompanied by loud explosions that forced residents to flee their homes.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as families ran for safety amid gunfire and confusion. Many sought refuge along major roads or in safer locations as security forces battled the attackers.
Joint troops of the Nigerian Army, Air Force, and other operatives eventually repelled the insurgents after intense exchanges, restoring calm to the affected communities.
Security sources also disclosed that a separate attack in Damboa Local Government Area was successfully foiled, with troops engaging insurgents in coordinated operations.
As of the time of this report, authorities have yet to confirm casualties or the full extent of damage, while clearance operations continue across affected areas.
•Cover: Scene of Maiduguexplosions
