The Borno State Police Command says 23 people have been confirmed dead, while 108 others were injured following multiple bomb blasts in Maiduguri.
The explosions, which occurred at about 7:24 p.m. on Monday, targeted a main market, the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, and the Post Office flyover.
In a statement signed by Nahum Daso, spokesperson of the command, police said “preliminary investigation reveals that the incidents were carried out by suspected suicide bombers”.
“Regrettably, a total of twenty three (23) persons lost their lives, while one hundred and eight (108) others sustained varying degrees of injuries,” the statement reads.
“Following the incidents, a combined team of Police Tactical Units, the Military, and other Joint Security Operatives were swiftly deployed to the affected areas.
“The scenes were immediately secured, cordoned off, and subjected to thorough sweep operations by Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit Base 13 Maiduguri to rule out the presence of any additional threats.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, psc, visited the affected locations to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the situation and to evaluate ongoing response efforts.
“He commiserated with victims and their families, while assuring the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property.”
Daso said victims were quickly evacuated to hospitals by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
According to the police, calm has been restored in the affected areas, while investigations are ongoing.
“Meanwhile, joint security operatives have heightened security presence and surveillance across Maiduguri and its environs to prevent any further occurrences,” the statement added.
“Investigations are ongoing to further ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incidents and to bring perpetrators to justice.
“The Borno State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious movements or objects to the nearest security agency.”
Meanwhile, Babagana Zulum called for calm in the aftermath of the attacks.
In a statement on Monday, the governor condemned the explosions, describing them as “utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane”.
He added that targeting civilians and places of worship is unacceptable, particularly at a time when Muslim faithful are observing acts of devotion.