Maiduguri Bombings: Zulum Confirms 2 Suicide Bombers Still At Large

Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum, has confirmed that two suspected suicide bombers remain at large following multiple explosions in Maiduguri, the state capital.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Pidgin, Zulum said intelligence reports indicate that five bombers infiltrated the city, with three already detonating improvised explosive devices (IEDs), while the whereabouts of the remaining two are unknown.

“As I mentioned earlier, the intelligence we have received so far indicates that five suicide bombers infiltrated Maiduguri. So far, three have detonated their IEDs, while the whereabouts of the remaining two are still being investigated,” the governor said.

The coordinated attacks left over 100 residents injured and caused 23 fatalities. Authorities have raised concerns about renewed insurgent infiltration, particularly during festive periods like Eid-el-Fitr.

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, revealed that some of the explosive devices were transported via tricycles to evade security checks.

Zulum assured that security agencies are actively tracking the remaining bombers and have intensified surveillance across the city. He urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid crowded areas.

“We are on top of the situation, and we will find the two who are yet to detonate their devices. Government has the responsibility to inform the public so that people can avoid places of gathering,” Zulum said.

The governor attributed the bombers’ infiltration to ongoing military operations in the Sambisa Forest and along Lake Chad, noting that insurgents often disperse into civilian areas to evade attacks. He added that Maiduguri’s growing population, now estimated at three to four million, complicates security screening efforts.

Despite the attacks, Zulum emphasized that Borno has made significant progress in tackling insurgency compared to previous years. He assured residents that additional security measures are in place to prevent further attacks.

“Anyone familiar with Borno will attest that peace has gradually returned, and this madness will not be allowed to continue,” he said.

In response to the bombings, President Bola Tinubu directed security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri, while the African Union called for increased global support for Nigeria.