Many Feared Dead as Double Explosion Hits Maiduguri

Many Feared Dead as Double Explosion Hits Maiduguri

Many people were feared dead while several others sustained injuries on Monday evening following two separate bomb explosions in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The blasts reportedly occurred almost simultaneously around the busy Monday Market area and near the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), sending panic across several parts of the city.

Witnesses said the explosions happened shortly after iftar, between about 6:45 p.m. and 7:20 p.m., with loud bangs heard around Monday Market, Kaleri, the Post Office area, and the hospital axis.

Eyewitnesses at the scene said several victims were seen lying on the ground while others with injuries were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

“There were dead bodies on the ground. Many persons with wounds have been rushed to the Specialist Hospital in Maiduguri,” one witness said.

Confirming the incident, the Head of Operations of the Federal Fire Service in Borno State, DSF Mohammed Kafaran, said emergency teams had been deployed to the affected area.

“Yes, there was a bomb explosion at Monday Market area around Elkenemi. We have deployed a team there to take reports. We will get back to you shortly,” he said.

The Borno State Police Command also acknowledged the incident and urged residents to remain calm while security agencies assess the situation.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, said: “Following reports of a suspected explosion at Maiduguri Monday Market and UMTH gate at about 7:20 p.m., joint security operatives and emergency responders have been deployed. Police EOD Unit, Base 13 Maiduguri, is on ground.”

He advised residents to stay away from the affected locations as security operatives continue investigations.

“Residents are advised to remain calm and avoid the area while assessments continue. Further updates shortly,” the police spokesman added.

The explosions triggered panic among residents, with many people reportedly leaving the areas in haste to seek safety.

The incident comes less than 24 hours after suspected insurgents were said to have attempted to infiltrate the Kofa community on the outskirts of Maiduguri but were repelled by security forces.