The Nigerian Army has issued a fresh security alert warning residents of Maiduguri to avoid crowded places following intelligence reports that more suicide bombers may still be within the city.
The warning comes in the aftermath of coordinated suicide attacks on Monday evening that killed 23 people and injured 108 others, throwing the city into panic.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Media Information Officer of the North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Sanni Uba, said the explosions occurred at about 7:05 p.m. during the Iftar period, when many residents had gathered in public places.
“The explosions occurred at about 7:05 p.m. on Monday during the period of Iftar,” the statement said, adding that the attackers are suspected members of Boko Haram who detonated improvised explosive devices in crowded locations.
Uba described the attacks as “cowardly,” noting that the perpetrators deliberately targeted peak-hour gatherings to inflict maximum casualties and spread fear.
He revealed that preliminary intelligence indicates the possible deployment of multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri, heightening fears of further attacks.
“Preliminary information further indicates that the terrorists may have deployed multiple suicide bombers into Maiduguri with the intention of carrying out coordinated suicide bombings at crowded locations. Security forces have therefore intensified surveillance, patrols, and counter-IED measures across the metropolis to track down any remaining suspects and prevent further attacks,” he said.
Emergency responders, including personnel from the National Emergency Management Agency and other medical teams, swiftly evacuated victims to major health facilities, including the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital, and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for urgent treatment.
“Emergency response teams, including personnel from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other medical service providers, promptly evacuated casualties to the General Hospital, Specialist Hospital, and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital for urgent medical attention.”
Uba assured residents that security forces are working to stabilise the situation and prevent further attacks, while medical teams continue to care for the injured.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities.
“The public is urged to remain vigilant, avoid crowded areas, and promptly report suspicious movements, unattended items, or unusual activities to security agencies,” he added.
