The Nigeria Police Force in Borno State has confirmed that 23 persons were killed and 108 others injured following multiple explosions in Maiduguri.
The police said the attacks, which occurred on Monday evening, were allegedly carried out by suspected suicide bombers using improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
The command’s spokesperson, Nahum Daso, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, noting that the incidents took place at several locations, including the Maiduguri Central Market, popularly known as Monday Market, the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital gate, and the Post Office Flyover area.
According to him, a combined team of police tactical units, military personnel and other joint security operatives was swiftly deployed to the affected areas.
He said the scenes were secured and cordoned off, while the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit carried out sweep operations to eliminate any further threats.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Naziru Abdulmajid, visited the scenes for an on-the-spot assessment and commiserated with victims and their families.
Daso assured residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He added that victims were evacuated by emergency responders, including the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Borno State Emergency Management Agency, to medical facilities for treatment.
According to him, normalcy has been restored in the affected areas, while security has been heightened across the metropolis to prevent further incidents.
The police urged residents to remain calm, stay vigilant and report any suspicious movements or objects to security agencies.
Daso reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.