Governor Babagana Zulum of Bornu, has condemned the series of explosions that rocked parts of Maiduguri on Monday evening, describing the attacks as inhumane and unacceptable.
In a statement issued through his media aide, the governor currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, which occurred during the holy period of Ramadan.
He characterised the attacks as cruel and cowardly, noting that innocent civilians were deliberately targeted.
Zulum extended his condolences to families of the victims and those injured, while calling on residents to remain calm despite the tension created by the blasts.
He also urged heightened vigilance across the state, particularly in places of worship and public gatherings, stressing the need for residents to promptly report any suspicious movements to security agencies.
The governor linked the recent spike in attacks to intensified military offensives against insurgents in strongholds such as the Sambisa Forest and other enclaves.
According to him, increased pressure on the militants may have triggered retaliatory strikes in civilian areas.
He, however, assured residents that the military and other security agencies remain in control of the situation and are taking necessary steps to prevent further breaches.
Zulum reiterated his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace in the state, urging citizens to cooperate with security agencies to maintain safety and stability.
The explosions, which occurred less than 24 hours after an attack on a nearby community, caused panic in parts of Maiduguri.
Preliminary reports indicated that the blasts happened around the Post Office area and near the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
Police authorities confirmed the incidents but said casualty figures were still unclear, as victims had been taken to multiple hospitals for treatment.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing several injured persons being evacuated from the scenes.
Residents have expressed concern over the resurgence of such attacks in the city, which had witnessed relative calm in recent years.
